We had the pleasure of being a frequent visitor to many Irish pubs over the years.

I lived in Dublin in 1999 with my best friend for a few months, working in one of the most popular pub/restaurants in the bustling tourist Temple Bar area. We got to know the area, and the workers, in many of the pubs in Dublin really well.

Then when Craig and I married, I just had to take him back there to live for a year as I knew he would love the craic of Dublin.

This time we had different jobs, lived in a great student area 1km from the city center called Rathmines, and we got to know a lot of local Dublin pubs outside of the Temple Bar tourist area.

Suffice to say we drank many pints of Guinness and got to know this city’s bar scene pretty well. We still travel back to Dublin many times over the years and enjoy visiting all the new and exciting pubs and bars.

But we’re pleased to see some of our old favorites are still going strong. If you’re not sure what’s the best pub in Dublin, then here is our list of the best Dublin pubs and bars that we enjoy!

Dublin’s Best Pubs and Bars

From historical taverns to classy wine bars, you will find a pub or bar for everyone on this list.

1. The Stag’s Head

This historic pub is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and authentic Irish pub experience.

With its cozy atmosphere, warm ambiance, and glowing lights, the Stag’s Head provides a welcoming setting for locals and tourists alike.

The Stag’s Head is steeped in history. Dating back to the 19th century, it holds the distinction of being one of the first pubs in Ireland to have electric light and a telephone.

Walking through its doors feels like stepping back in time, as you soak in the rich heritage and old-world charm.

It’s also renowned for its traditional Irish hospitality. The friendly staff and lively atmosphere create an inviting environment where you can mingle with locals and fellow travelers, engaging in vibrant conversations over pints of beer.

2. Rody Bolands

Located in Rathmines, is the Rody Bolands, a traditional Dublin Irish pub, extremely popular with students and as a meeting place for those living in Dublin who came from the country.

We walked past this pub for weeks before venturing inside. The nondescript red door outside deceived us into thinking it was just a small drinking establishment of interest for an older crowd.

Then the word started to filter to us about the Irish craic that was to be found inside.

We were absolutely stunned when we finally opened the tiny door to discover a gigantic pub that went back about 3 blocks and was completely filled to the brim with lively Guinness drinking Irish lads and laddies.

3. The Quays Bar

The Quays Bar can be found in the touristy Temple Bar District and is an absolute fave of mine.

It was only a couple of pubs down from the Oliver St John Gogartys pub where I worked.

Every break and spare leisure time we had we could be found drinking at the Quays Bar or with the staff and regular locals, who we became great friends with.

It is a great Dublin pub to go to experience traditional Irish music session and Irish dancing, Guinness, strong Irish whiskey, and a bloody great craic.

It’s touristy, but that doesn’t mean stay away from it – it made our best Dublin pubs list for a reason.

4. Meaghers

Four stories high overlooking the O’ Connell Bridge and the River Liffey, Meaghers is a fantastic pub to sit and talk with friends.

Messrs is not a historic pub, but it’s set inside an old 19th century building. Inside it looks like time stood still, though with hints of modern decor and warm ambiant lighting setting the mood.

There’s a maze of stairs, quiet rooms and squeaky floors, adding to the overall charm of the place.

Meaghers can get very busy but usually not as rowdy as some of the other Dublin city bars. They have a great selection of home brewed craft beer on tap and a delightful menu serving up hearty pub food – but really, is that what you came to Dublin for?

5. The Brazen Head

Dating back to 1198, The Brazen Head is the oldest pub in Ireland and is said to be the former drinking hole of iconic Dublin writers such as Jonathan Swift and James Joyce.

It’s one of the most famous pubs in Ireland, let alone Dublin.

It is a couple of blocks outside the Temple Bar District and just a short walk from the Guinness factory. It is certainly worth visiting for the history and character that lies within its walls.

Traditional Irish music can be heard in any of its cozy rooms or from your seat in the cobble stoned courtyard during the warmer summer months.

The food isn’t bad too! Be sure to sample the famous Beef and Guinness Stew.

A visit to the Brazen Head will give you that traditional Irish pub experience you have been dying to have. And as the oldest pub in Ireland, it’s worth visiting for the architecture of this old coach house in itself.

6. Johnny Fox’s Pub

Johnny Fox’s is quite a legendary pub to visit and really not that well known – I discovered it through my brother who would take all his visiting friends there.

This is one of those “off the beaten paths” pub experiences to whisper to your mates about. There is a catch though, you are going to need a car or some money for a cab (I’ve just discovered they now have a booze bus that runs from the city there – bonus).

Johnny Fox’s is famed as being the highest pub in Ireland, sitting on top of the Dublin mountains in Glencullen about a 25 minute drive from the city centre.

Johnny Fox’s is a unique and atmospheric Irish pub, and is well known for its entertainment, and famous visitors such as U2 and the Coors.

7. The Porterhouse

This is one of the best pubs in Dublin for live music and musicians – traditional, acoustic, and bands. It is situated on the edge of the Temple Bar district, so it does get quite a tourist stream coming through, although it is a favorite amongst Dubliners as well.

There are four floors of drinking space with unique views over balconies to the live music below.

Beers from around the world are flowing plenty and they also brew their own beers in the drinking pub. Giant copper vats add to the decor of the pub which make for interesting photo opportunities.

8. Cafe en Seine Bar

Cafe en Seine is a stylish bar on Dawson Street, just one street parallel to the main high end shopping Grafton St. It really is a bar with a difference and it is worth a visit to ogle at the decor alone.

As the name suggests it is quite 19th century Parisian in its design, although the beer tends to flow Irish style. This bar has more of a young professional crowd with older genteel and tourists frequenting the establishment.

A great New Years Eve party can be had here – buy your tickets early.

9. McSorleys Pub

McSorleys Pub is a local Dublin Pub in the student area of Ranelagh village.

Again it was at the bottom of the street I lived on with my best friend. If we weren’t partying in the Temple Bar District we could be found sipping some pints of Kilkenny here with the local crowds.

McSorleys is a great pub to catch some live sporting events, particularly any rugby matches and so for that it makes our Best Dublin Pubs list.

10. Zanzibar Locke

Zanzibar Locke is one of the very few bars we visited North of the River Liffey and is located near the Ha’penny Bridge.

Plush velvet cushions, gigantic urns, palm trees, high ceilings and a long hall, and eastern paintings decorate the spacious two-story bar, giving an exotic and opulence Indian Ocean appeal.

As it is a really popular bar, arrive early to beat the queues and be prepared to lose vast sums of money to the pricey beer that is sold behind the extremely long bar.

Zanzibar is worth a visit to check out the design and to ogle at the good looking men and women that drink here.

11. John Kavanagh’s (The Gravediggers)

For those looking for historical pubs in Dublin, a visit to John Kavanagh’s is a must.

Known as “The Gravediggers,” this iconic pub has a rich history and unique charm that sets it apart from the rest.

John Kavanagh’s is located in the heart of Dublin’s historic Glasnevin Cemetery, giving it an eerie yet captivating atmosphere. Its proximity to the cemetery adds a touch of mystique to the pub, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

The pub boasts a long-standing tradition of serving excellent pints of Guinness. Savoring a perfectly poured pint while surrounded by the rustic interior and friendly patrons creates an unforgettable experience.

John Kavanagh’s has retained its traditional character throughout the years. The pub’s original features, including its wooden snugs and cozy fireplaces, transport you back in time, allowing you to enjoy a drink in a truly authentic setting.

12. The Palace Bar

The Palace Bar is another historic establishment has been serving patrons since 1823, making it one of the oldest pubs in the city.

Stepping into The Palace Bar feels like stepping back in time, with its traditional wooden decor, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff.

One of the main reasons to visit The Palace Bar is its impressive selection of whiskey.

With over 300 different varieties to choose from, it’s a whiskey lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just starting your whiskey journey, the knowledgeable bartenders are always on hand to guide you through their extensive collection.

The pub is also known for its live traditional music sessions, where talented musicians come together to create a lively and enjoyable atmosphere.

13. The Cobblestone

This lively pub is renowned for its traditional Irish music sessions that attract talented musicians and enthusiastic crowds.

The Cobblestone offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying live music.

Its rustic interior, complete with wooden beams and exposed brick walls, creates a warm and welcoming ambiance that sets the stage for unforgettable performances.

The pub’s commitment to showcasing the best of Irish music is unparalleled, with something happening every night of the week.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Irish folk tunes or prefer contemporary interpretations, The Cobblestone provides a platform for both established musicians and emerging talent, ensuring a diverse and captivating lineup.

14. O’Donoghue

Located on Merrion Row near St. Stephen’s Green, this historic establishment has been a cornerstone of Dublin’s social scene since 1789.

One of the main draws of O’Donoghue’s is its live Irish music. Renowned for hosting talented musicians, including the famous Irish ballad group, The Dubliners, the pub offers an authentic and lively traditional music experience.

Whether you’re a fan of folk tunes or simply appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, O’Donoghue’s is the place to be.

Beyond the incredible music, O’Donoghue’s is also known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The friendly staff, comfortable surroundings, and cozy ambiance make it the perfect spot to relax with a pint of Guinness or sample some Irish whiskey.

15. L. Mulligan. Grocer

L. Mulligan Grocer is a must-visit pub in Stoneybatter, which has gained a reputation for its commitment to Irish craft brewing, local distillers, and seasonally-inspired cocktails.

Their menu celebrates the use of Irish ingredients, offering a delightful fusion of flavors.

L. Mulligan Grocer is not your typical grocer; it’s a cozy, dark pub that stands out from the crowd.

Here, you won’t find Guinness on tap, but you will discover an extensive selection of Irish craft beers and whiskeys to satisfy every palate.

Visitors rave about the exceptional food, which is locally sourced and prepared with care. From traditional Irish dishes to inventive modern creations, L. Mulligan Grocer offers a diverse and tantalizing menu.

The ambiance of L. Mulligan Grocer adds to its allure, with its warm and inviting atmosphere complemented by friendly staff who are passionate about their craft.

Final Thoughts on Pubs and Bars in Dublin

I could literally make this the longest guide in history, but for now we will leave you with our regular favorites.

After writing about one pub, I then remembered another and then another.

Three things writing this post has made me realize – Craig and I have lived an extraordinary life, we have partied quite a lot while doing it, and that I am dying to be in Dublin right now for some good old Irish craic.

You just can’t beat it.

More Ireland Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for visiting Ireland? Here are some other helpful guides…

• Things to do in Dublin, Ireland Through A Once Local’s Eyes
• Things to Do in Northern Ireland
• Ireland Travel Tips
• 10 Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

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I lived in Dublin for 12-months back in 2003 and explored Ireland extensively then, and most recently did an 8-day Ireland trip called Green With Envy in partnership with Globus Journeys. Our Ireland tour covered a nice mix of top cities including Dublin and Galway, smaller towns, plus history, culture, incredible scenery and the addictive pub scene.

Ireland might be a small island, but there are plenty of fun and unique things to do in Ireland. It’s a place well known for its rich history, vibrant cities and small towns, rugged coastline, historic castles, pub culture, and green rolling countryside. I still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. 

Many of the experiences listed below I was able to do on my recent tour of Ireland, and if you’re interested in a tour with all the fun and none of the overwhelm and stress of planning your own independent trip, check out my 8-day Ireland tour with Globus, the group tour experts who make travel easy!

Indulge in a Pint of the “Black Stuff” (Guinness)

Let me start with one of my favorite things about Ireland. Few countries are as intrinsically linked to one drink as Ireland is to the black stout by the name of Guinness; it’s a big part of what makes up the culture of Ireland. 

Arthur Guinness signed took a risk by singing a 9,000 YEAR lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin in 1759. It certainly paid off as it’s grown from these humble beginnings to become one of the world’s most iconic beers.

While you may have sipped on Guinness in your native land (it’s brewed in 49 countries) there’s nowhere like drinking Guinness than in its home. Indulging in (at least) one pint during your Ireland vacation is one of the unmissable things to do in Ireland. 

Trust me, it tastes so much better in Ireland, and I acquired the taste while living in Dublin. There’s even a study that claims to scientifically prove that Guinness does not travel well, and the freshest Guinness is the best-tasting Guinness!

This dark, creamy alcohol is now so iconic that the Guinness Storehouse is the most visited of the Ireland attractions (see more about this below).

Sipping on a pint of Guinness, in an Irish pub, paired with Fish ‘n Chips or a Beef & Guinness Stew while listening to traditional music, is as quintessential as Ireland gets.

St Patrick’s Day in Dublin

The Irish are all about having good craic (a good time), and there’s few other celebrations around the world that gather as much participation from other nationalities as Ireland’s St Patrick’s Day. St Patrick’s Day in Dublin is a fun and unique experience!

They don’t dye the river green in Dublin (like they do in Chicago), nor do they speak in limericks, but you’ll experience vibrant color, song, conversation and celebration.

One of the best ways to experience Dublin on Ireland’s national holiday is to hit the streets and soak up the atmosphere and watch the parade, as I did while living in Dublin in 2003.

The parade route is lined with families, visitors and locals in every shade of green, silly hats, and waving tricolors. And afterwards, hit up one of the local Dublin pubs to continue the party! 

Walk along the Cliffs of Moher

Any tour of Ireland is not complete without a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, the second most visited destination in Ireland (behind the Guinness Storehouse). 

Rising 700 ft vertically above the ocean and running along the coast of County Clare for almost 8 miles, the soft shale and sandstone cliffs offer spectacular views of the Atlantic. Formed over 320 million years ago, they are a part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.

One of the best things to do in Ireland is walk along the paved pathways (there’s a safety fence in place) and explore different vantage points of these famous Ireland cliffs.

Tap Your Toes To Live Traditional Irish Music in a Pub

There’s no better way to enjoy good craic than listening to traditional Irish music in a local pub, preferably with a pint of Guinness in hand. 

Irish traditional music can be traced back thousands of years. It embodies the spirit of the people of Ireland and their music is like a language – a non-stop celebration of sound and storytelling. 

The main traditional instruments are the fiddle, Irish flute, tin whistle, Celtic harp, uilleann pipes, and the bodhrán, and I dare you to resist the urge to tap your toes and slap the table with your hands, or, better yet, leap up and dance around.

My favorite night of my Irish tour was at the iconic Quays Bar, one of the most popular pubs in Galway for live music. I’m guessing this will become one of your favorite Ireland travel memories too!

The largest traditional music festival is the annual summer event Fleadh Cheoil. Other notable places include Ennis in County Clare (with its half-dozen music pubs0, and I had an amazing time in Doolin way back in 2003 which has a cluster of famous music pubs.

Almost every Irish pub in every town will have live traditional music, and often just the locals gathering together to play a few tunes! 

Taste Irish Whiskey

Aside from Guinness, Ireland is famous for that other beverage, Irish Whiskey. The word ‘whiskey’ comes from the Irish uisce beatha, meaning water of life. 

Irish whiskey is typically triple-distilled, while scotch is often distilled only twice. And Irish whiskey tends to have a smoother finish as opposed to the smoky, earthy overtones common to Scotch whisky. Also, Irish whiskey is always spelled with an “e”. 

Popular brands include: 

• Jameson 
• Bushmills 
• Kilbeggan 
• Connemara 
• Green Spot 
• Redbreast 
• Teeling
• Tullamore Dew 
• Tyrconnell 

On my tour of Ireland, we enjoyed Whiskey tastings at the Roe & Co Distillery in Dublin, and at the Kilbeggan Distillery (the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland) in County Westmeath. 

If you love whiskey, or want to get another taste of Ireland, I highly recommend you take a tour of a distillery to learn about the history and the distilling process. Check out this tour of the Jameson Distillery, the Teeling Whiskey tour, or the Irish Whiskey Museum.

Drive the Wild Atlantic Way

West Coast Ireland’s scenery is breathtaking, and the best way to take it all in is to drive part of, or all of, the Wild Atlantic Way. The Wild Atlantic Way is a coastal route that stretches 1,600 miles from the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork. 

It is divided into 14 stages for easier orientation and all up is one of the premier road trips in the world, and highlights include Malin Head in Donegal, Clifden in the Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher, Mizen Head in Cork, the incredible Dingle Peninsula and the famous Ring of Kerry!

Another favorite experience on my recent Ireland trip was visiting Achill Island, Ireland’s largest offshore island and one of the jewels in the crown of the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Indulge in Fish n’ Chips

I wouldn’t necessarily classify Ireland as a foodie destination, except when it comes to Fish ‘n Chips. Ireland is of course an island and surrounded by water, and many critics say the best fish and chips in Europe can be found in the Emerald Isle.

So, you can’t visit Ireland without ordering, at least once on your Ireland trip, classic Fish ‘n Chips (fries). Take it from me, they’re best ordered in a cozy pub, with a side of traditional music, and washed down with a pint of the “black stuff”. 

Of course, like any seafood, the best fish and chips is the freshest and comes from the coastal towns who have close access to the fresh catch each day. Some of the best seafood towns in Ireland include:

• Dingle
• Wexford
• Kinsale
• Dundalk
• and Galway

Popular Fish ‘n Chip shops in Ireland include:

1. Leo Burdock’s in Dublin
2. McDonagh’s in Galway
3. Wharton’s in Kenmare
4. Luigi’s in Limerick
5. Harry’s Shack on the Antrim Coastline
6. Superfry in Portstewart
7. Beshoff Brothers in Howth

Be sure to set foot in a chipper (fish ‘n chip shop) or a local pub for one of Ireland’s favorite meals!

The Guinness Storehouse

Speaking of Guinness and the importance of freshness, it doesn’t get any fresher than the Storehouse in Dublin. There’s a reason it’s ranked number one out of all the places to visit in Ireland.

When I said there’s no better place to drink Guinness than in Ireland, the best pint of velvety black stout is probably poured at the Guinness Storehouse facility at the historic St. James’s Gate Brewery! 

This 7-story museum is one of the best things to do in Dublin as it gives a fascinating insight into the history of Ireland’s favorite drink, how it is made, the 6-step ritual behind the perfect pour, and the influence it has over the world. 

Afterward, don’t miss going to the 7th-floor Gravity Bar to drink in the 360-degree city views over Dublin as you try a perfect pint. Get your entrance ticket here. Sláinte!

Explore Historic Ireland

Since the first human settlement in 6000 BC, Ireland has had some fascinating historical periods and events. The rich history and heritage have helped to shape the country. Visiting historical attractions is one of my favorite things about exploring Ireland.

Top Irish Historical Attractions

• Rock of Cashel – one of Ireland’s most historic sights and the seat of the ancient kings of Ireland. St. Patrick baptized King Aengus here in 450 AD. 
• Trinity College – Ireland’s oldest and famous University. Its alumni include some of the country’s most esteemed authors and poets.

• The Book of Kells – Written in 800 AD, this is an illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, containing the four Gospels of the New Testament together with various prefatory texts and tables. Currently housed at Trinity College.
• Kylemore Abbey – built in the late 1800s by a wealthy businessman, today owned and run by the Benedictine community who have been in residence since 1920. Magnificent property.
• Glendalough – founded in the early 6th century by St. Kevin, who sought an isolated place for religious reflection.
• Christ Church & St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Christ Church is the elder of Dublin city’s two mediæval cathedrals. It is officially claimed as the seat (cathedra) of both the Church of Ireland and Roman Catholic archbishops of Dublin.

• Kilmainham Gaol – built in the late 18th century. Housed many of the prominent revolutionaries involved in the 1916 Easter Rising.
• Dublin Castle – an important building in Ireland’s history. Until 1922 it was the seat of the British government’s administration in Ireland.

Explore Ireland on Foot

This country is a great road trip destination, but Ireland can be best explored on foot. Walking in Ireland can be as simple as a stroll along a canal, or hiking along spectacular sea cliffs, remote islands, or along one of its 43 waymarked long-distance trails.

All you’ll need is a good pair of waterproof hiking shoes, decent fitness, some food and water, and, inevitably, a rain jacket.

Some of the best walks in Ireland include:

• The Causeway Coast (Antrim’s north coast) – the final 10 miles from Carrick-a-Rede to the Giant’s Causeway can be done in a day and is one of the finest coastal walks in Ireland. 
• Wicklow Way (near Dublin) – one of Ireland’s most popular long-distance walks for its remarkable scenery and accessible start and finish points.
• Carrauntoohil (County Kerry) – the best mountain hike and the highest summit, at 1040m (3412ft).
• Howth Summit – best short hike near Dublin.
• Muckross Lake Loop Trail (County Kerry) – akes in some of the most photogenic parts of Killarney National Park. 
• Slieve Bloom Mountains (County Offaly) – great walks for families

May-September are typically the best months for hiking and when you stand the greatest chance of dry weather and less chance of midges.

Sip on an Irish Coffee

If you love coffee and whiskey like me, combine them and you’re in heaven. And if you’ve never had an Irish Coffee, why not start here, in its home of Ireland. 

Invented in County Limerick in 1942, the ingredients of an Irish Coffee are whiskey, hot coffee, brown sugar, and heavy cream lightly whipped on top. If, like me, you attempt to make Irish coffees at home but can never get the cream to sit on top, just let the experts in Ireland make it for you.

You can pretty much get a good one in any pub or restaurant, but when in Dublin, head to The Brazen Head for the ultimate traditional Irish experience. Garavan’s in the heart of Galway city is also renowned for their Irish Coffee. And of course, you must try an Irish coffee in the place where it all began – Foynes in County Limerick.

Explore the Small Towns

While most travelers flock to big cities like Dublin, Galway, and Belfast, one of the country’s best features is its small towns and villages. 

I don’t know if anyone does a small town much better than Ireland, and it’s here you’ll find true charm and character, history, quaint architecture, and stunning locations.

Think rows of colorful buildings, pubs with live music, quaint villages with colorful thatched-roof cottages, and some of the best food. Ireland’s small towns provide a peaceful and intimate glimpse into Irish history and hospitality.

Some of the best small towns for Ireland travel experiences include:

• Westport – picturesque malls at its heart running either side of the Carrowbeg River, and the famous peak of Croagh Patrick provides a stark backdrop.
• Kinsale – known as “the prettiest town in Ireland,” and famous for its colorful brightly painted rows of shops.
• Doolin – one of my personal favorites. Small town charm and great live music scene in some of the coziest of Irish pubs. Close by are the famous Cliffs of Moher.
• Dingle – a beautiful Irish-speaking fishing town and the quintessential Irish town in all its colorful beauty and launch point to drive the incredible Dingle Peninsula. 

• Clifden – perfectly situated for exploration into the Connemara National Park.
• Clonakilty –  bustling town and a hub for tourism in West Cork.
• Killarney – a charming town and the gateway to the fabulous Killarney National Park.
• Cobh – Titanic town: the final port of call for the RMS Titanic before its fateful voyage. Charming waterfront town.
• Kenmare – Harry Potter fans will know Kenmare as the home of the “Kenmare Kestrels”. Otherwise known as tranquil with colorful historic shops, quaint streets, and rolling green hills.
• Kilkenny – lots of ambience, live music, colorful shops, a winding River Nore, and Kilkenny Castle.

See a Gaelic Football Game (or Hurling) 

Looking for unique things to do in Ireland? One of the best live sporting matches and cultural experiences I have ever experienced was the All-Ireland semi-final Gaelic football match between Donegal and Armagh at Croke Park Stadium in Dublin in 2003.

With a sea of brightly colored orange and green jerseys and team flags madly waving in the crowd, the atmosphere was electric with fans on the edge of their seats screaming and cheering with every play of the ball. It was non-stop thrilling action!

You couldn’t find more passionate fans, especially when it comes to Ireland’s own Gaelic games of Gaelic Football and Hurling, Ireland’s very own indigenous sports.

Gaelic Football is the most popular sport in Ireland with over 2.6 million registered players. The game is played with a small ball, similar to a handball, and was introduced to Ireland by the Scots and Irish immigrants. 

Hurling is the national sport of Ireland that was played by the Celts thousands of years ago, and has been passed down from generation to generation. It is played on a pitch with a large ball and a small ball. The goal of the game is to get the small ball through the sliotar into the goals. 

Step Along to Some Irish Dancing

Ireland is synonymous with Irish dancing. It has been around for centuries, but you may have first become aware of it in the 90’s due to the production of Riverdance, which brought Irish Dancing to the world stage. A visit to Ireland isn’t complete without taking in some live Irish dancing.

Away from the glamor of shows such as Riverdance and Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance, there remains in Ireland a deep love of traditional dance and the history and heritage it represents.

Styles have evolved over the years, but, in general, they include step dancing (characterized by the rigid upper body and intricate footwork of its performers), jig dance, sean nós dancing, céilí dance, and Irish tap dancing.

As part of my Ireland tour with Globus, we enjoyed a night of traditional Irish dancing and singing inside Ireland’s largest thatched roof pub at Taylors Three Rock. Other places in Dublin to see dancing include:

• The Irish Dance Party (Merchants Arch Bar in Temple Bar)
• Celtic Nights (Arlington Hotel)
• Hooley Show (Johnnie fox’s Pub)
• Murray’s Bar
• Belvedere Hotel
• Irish House Party

Other places around Ireland include:

• Trad On The Prom (Galway)
• The Points Irish and Whiskey Alehouse (Belfast)

Beef & Guinness Stew (or Guinness Pie)

I love beef, and by now you know I love Guinness, so this combination is a marriage made in heaven for me! It’s often the simple moments that bring me the most joy and filling up on this classic Irish comfort food in a local pub brings me lots of JOY.

And when in Dublin, you can find me enjoying a hearty Beef & Guinness stew at one of my favorite Irish pubs, The Stags Head. 

In case you don’t know, Guinness is a tasty addition to stews and casseroles, as it helps tenderize the meat and adds its distinctive malty flavor to any dish. Check out this list of things you can cook up using Guinness.

Of course, the Beef & Guinness Pie version housed in a pastry is another favorite alternative, and I enjoyed this HUGE pie on the Achill Islands at Gielty’s Bar during my tour of Ireland with Globus. 

Without the addition of Guinness, of course traditional Irish Stew (Lamb Chunks with root vegetables, baby potatoes and fresh herbs) is still one of the country’s most well-known dishes and comfort food.

Most pubs and Irish restaurants are likely to serve their own versions of this dish, but in Dublin check out the Oval Bar, the Hairy Lemon and JW Sweetman for hearty stews.

The Pub Scene 

Ireland is a country of pubs, and the pub is an essential part of the culture. When you visit Ireland it feels like there’s a pub on every street, at least in every town, and there are over 7,000 pubs in Ireland, and 700+ in Dublin alone!

Irish pubs are like second homes for locals, and they became mine too while living in Dublin. It’s within a pub’s walls where you can really feel the friendliness of the people, the place for good craic, and the history and character of the pubs just draw you in. 

And as great as the beer is, you can still immerse yourself in the pub scene without drinking beer, simply pop in for a hearty pub meal and listen to traditional Irish music.

But if you do fancy a pint, here’s a quick run down of popular Irish beers:

• Guinness – Stout (Dublin)
• Murphy’s – Irish Stout (Cork)
• Smithwick’s – Red Ale

• Harp – Lager
• Galway Hooker – IPA
• Kilkenny – Cream Ale

Just a few of the top pubs in Ireland from a very long list include: 

• The Temple Bar (Dublin) – lively tourist pub
• Sean’s Bar (Athlone) – oldest pub in Ireland
• Tigh Neachtain (Galway) – a favorite of local Galwegians
• The Crown Liquor Saloon (Belfast) – historic Victorian pub.
• Johnnie Fox’s – amazing traditional pub in a mountain location, great food, live music.
• Quay’s Bar (Dublin & Galway) – live music scene.
• The Brazen Head – Dublin’s oldest pub

• The Folk House (Kinsale) – epitome of a traditional Irish bar.
• The Beach Bar (Sligo) – traditional thatched pub nestled right beside the sea
• Matt Molloy’s (Mayo) – a night of craic and live music
• Murphy’s Bar (Dingle Peninsula) – views over Brandon Bay and the surrounding hills 
• Kehoe’s (Dublin) – Victorian pub with a rich literary history.
• John Kavanagh, The Gravediggers (Dublin) – much loved for a local Dublin feel.

Drink in Ireland’s Oldest Pub

When you visit Ireland, don’t miss the chance to have a drink in the oldest pub, Seans, which dates back to 900 AD. Not only is it the oldest in Ireland, but Guinness Book of Records is yet to find one older anywhere in the world!

This ancient bar in Athlone features sloping floors, peat fires and lots of music. Just walking through the door into the pub with its low ceiling and low light, you can sense the history and character and instantly feel like you’re stepping back in time.

I enjoyed a morning Irish coffee here during my Green With Envy tour with Globus and look forward to returning for a Guinness or Whiskey!

Black Cab Tour of Belfast

While you might be spending most of your time in the Republic of Ireland, since this island is so small, I recommend you consider including Northern Irealnd on your trip as well.

One of my most moving and tense Ireland travel moments was doing a black cab tour of Belfast for a unique insight into Belfast’s and Northern Ireland’s troubled past. 

We learned about the complex history and harrowing tales and how it has shaped the present day from a knowledgeable guide who drove us around to some of the city’s most-famous political murals, peace walls, and both sides of the divide in a London-style black cab.

If this interests you, check out this one-hour black taxi tour of Belfast which has a lot of great reviews. 

Kick Start Your Day with a Full-Irish Breakfast

One thing I loved about our London trip this year was my morning Full-English Breakfast, there’s nothing like a good fry-up to kick start your day, especially in the cooler months. 

The same rang true for me in Ireland. But their version, a Full-Irish Breakfast, generally consists of a combination of bacon, sausages, eggs, fried tomatoes, mushrooms, hash browns, white and black pudding (pork meat with oatmeal and blood sausage respectively) and baked beans. 

Get fueled up for your day of exploration, and especially good as a hangover cure after a night on the Guinness. You can find these breakfasts in most hotels and restaurants.

Other Food Experiences

What would be the point of traveling to Ireland without sampling some authentic Irish cuisine?

Irish food can be best described as hearty, and almost all dishes involve potatoes, cabbage, and meat (especially lamb and pork, but with a strong emphasis on using fresh local ingredients.

Food in Ireland isn’t just about the taste; it’s about the place, the experience, and the people who created it. When visiting one of the local eateries, don’t just stick to Fish n’ Chips or Irish Stew, consider one of these other traditional dishes:

• Bacon and Cabbage
• Cockles & Mussels (immortalized in the Dublin’s unofficial anthem, ‘Molly Malone)
• Smoked salmon
• Seafood chowder
• Potato and leek soup
• bangers & Mash

• Soda bread & Irish Brown Bread
• Ulster fry (bacon, eggs, sausages and black pudding)
• Colcannon (mashed potatoes mixed with cabbage or kale)
• Boxty (Potato dumpling, potato pancake and potato bread are all descriptors)
• Black and white pudding

For more Irish food experiences, check out the English Market in Cork, the Temple Bar Food Market in Dublin and the St George’s Market in Belfast. As for food tours, check out this food walking tour in Dublin.

Temple Bar District

The happening Temple Bar District in Dublin is like no other place in Ireland. It’s where almost every visitor heads to for good craic and a few pints in one of its many lively pubs. Although it may be the center of Dublin’s nightlife, and thrives day and night, it’s not just about the beer!

This district on the south bank of the River Liffey is also one of cobbled streets, a large variety of restaurants, cafes, markets, art galleries, exhibitions, theaters, hotels and more.

But honestly, most tourists come here for the beer and the party. The best-known pub is the namesake Temple Bar, easily recognized by its red exterior, fairy lights and hanging baskets. Other popular pubs here include the Quays Bar and Oliver St. John Gogarty’s.

All of the pubs tend to get crowded, especially in the evenings, and yes it’s full of tourists and tourist prices, but if you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere and a fun introduction to Ireland, this is the place!

Shop on Grafton Street

The principal shopping street on the southside of the River Liffey in Dublin is Grafton Street, a pedestrian street lined with boutique stores containing the creations of Ireland’s trendy designers, plus cafes, bars, and restaurants. 

Located between Trinity College and St Stephen’s Green, this bustling thoroughfare is one of Europe’s busiest shopping streets, Since the 1980s has become internationally known for its street entertainment, particularly busking, with musicians, poets and mime artists commonly performing for shoppers.

There wouldn’t be many streets in Ireland as well-trodden as Grafton Street, and even if you’re not into shopping the people watching and the buskers are worth the stroll. 

Marvel at the Giant’s Causeway

Another great attraction not to miss in Northern Ireland is the The Giant’s Causeway.

Here you can follow in the legendary footsteps of giants at Northern Ireland’s iconic World Heritage Site. It is truly spectacular and unique, as thousands of basalt columns tumble down into the Atlantic Ocean, with a whopping 40,000 hexagonal-shaped steppingstones formed some 60 million years ago.

The story of this site is about an Irish giant who picked a fight with Scottish big man Benandonner. Legend has it that the giants loathed each other. And so, one day Fionn built a path to use as stepping-stones to reach Scotland, which was then ripped up by Benandonner. The result was the Giant’s Causeway.

A short walk brings you down to the Causeway itself, where you can hop over the stones, explore the surrounding hills, or just sit and contemplate the puzzling geology of one of Europe’s most remarkable natural sites. 

There you have it. A list of Ireland travel experiences to put on your list for a visit to the Emerald Isle. If you didn’t know what to do in Ireland, now you know! What activity or experience would you enjoy most?

And don’t forget to check out the Ireland itinerary I did with Globus if you don’t won’t to go it alone and have all the fun without the hassle!

Video: Top 5 Experiences in Dublin

Click play to watch our short video sharing our Dublin highlights.

That’s the beauty of travel, always discovering new places, experiencing different adventures, and creating new memories that last a lifetime. And over the past 20+ years of travel some of my favorite moments have been at the lesser-known destinations!

When it comes to tourism in Ireland, places that come to mind are the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry. And I think of experiences like listening to traditional Irish music in a pub, eating Fish n’ Chips, visiting a castle, exploring the cities of Dublin and Galway, tasting Irish Whiskey, sipping on an Irish Coffee, and of course, a pint of the “black stuff”, Guinness.

I love all those Ireland travel experiences. But another genuine connection I feel is to Ireland’s natural beauty. The rolling green hills, the dramatic cliffs, the picturesque valleys, and the rugged and rocky Atlantic coastline. 

I never get tired of coastal road trips and have been fortunate to experience some of the best in the world like the Great Ocean Road in Australia, the Garden Route in South Africa, and the Pacific Coast Highway in California. 

West Coast Ireland is breathtaking. And on my recent 8-day tour of Ireland in partnership with Globus, one palace they introduced me to was Achill Island. 

When I lived in Dublin, we explored the famous Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula which are stunningly beautiful and a must-do. But they are both heavily visited, especially the Ring of Kerry as the road on the Dingle Peninsula can’t be navigated by the big tour buses!

What I loved about our day on Achill Island is that we basically had the island all to ourselves! 

Where is Achill Island?

Achill Island is a remote island off the coast of County Mayo, on the west coast of Ireland, about an hour’s drive (26 miles) from the charming town of Westport (which we used as a base). It’s also close to the towns of Newport, and Castlebar.

Drive times from other popular places to visit in Ireland include:

• Galway – 2 hours (75 miles)
• Dublin – 4 hours (177 miles)
• Belfast – 4.5 hours (202 miles)
• Cork – 4.5 hours (202 miles)
• Ring of Kerry – 5.15 hours (233 miles)

It occupies an area of some 57 sq miles (15 miles from east to west, 11 miles from north to south), and its coastline measures over 80 miles. This is one of the most westerly islands in Europe.

This island forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal route that stretches 1,600 miles along the Irish west coast from the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork and is divided into 14 stages for easier orientation, one of those stages includes Achill Island.

Departing Westport, our drive took us through Newport and Mallaranny before crossing Achill Sound over the 740 ft long Michael Davitt Bridge that connects the island to the mainland. 

About Achill Island

Achill is at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way and is Ireland’s largest offshore island. It’s known for soaring sea cliffs, rocky headlands, rolling mountains, ever-changing Atlantic skies, and sheltered beaches – Keem Bay is one of the 14 Signature Discovery Points that span the 1,600-mile route.

It has a history of human settlement that is at least 5000 years old. Remains of megalithic tombs and monuments suggest settlement in the 3rd or 4th centuries BC and has been a frequent refuge during Ireland’s various rebellions.

The current population is about 2,500 people (lots of sheep, too), and the village of Keel is the island’s main center of activity, with other shops and services scattered throughout.

The two highest peaks are on Slievemore (671m) and Croaghaun (668m), the most westerly peak. Its cliffs are the highest sea cliffs in Ireland and the third highest in Europe, and can only be seen by hiking around or to the summit, or from the sea.

Two-thirds of the island is covered by peat bog (a type of wetland) and this probably accounts for the relatively low number of plant species, and why trees are almost entirely absent from the island

It’s thought the name Achill is the Gaelic word ‘acaill’, meaning eagle. One of the earliest references to Achill came in 1235 when the Annals of Loch Ce refers to ‘Eccuill’ (Eagle Island). However, the last reported sighting of an eagle was in 1912.

Achill’s remote location and unique landscape has attracted a long list of interesting characters, artists and writers seeking inspiration, including writers Heinrich Böll and Graham Greene.

The film, The Banshees of Inisherin, was filmed extensively on Achill Island, and The Venice Film Festival awarded Colin Farrell ‘Best Actor’ for his role. The movie My Sailor, My Love, was also filmed on location and will hit cinemas in Ireland and the UK in early 2023.

Achill Island has long been a popular water-sports and walking destination, and offers a range of accommodation, dining and entertainment options.

Exploring Achill Island

The most flexible way to explore is by car. This way you can discover all the hidden gems at your own pace, pass through the small towns and villages, and meet the locals.

Or you can do it like I did, as part of a longer group tour of Ireland. On day 3 of my 8-day Ireland trip with Globus we visited from Westport, and it was a definite highlight of the whole Ireland trip! As far as I’m aware, Globus are the only current large tour bus operator who visits Achill Island on their Green With Envy Tour.

From Westport, we drove the N59 to Mallaranny, then the R319 all the way to Keem Bay. Alternatively, instead of following R319 from Mallaranny to Achill, you can take the sign posted Ocean Rd which curves clockwise around the Curraun Peninsula and offers stunning views of Clew Bay and out to sea.

Then once you cross Michael Davitt Bridge onto Achill, cut left to pick up Atlantic Drive signed Wild Atlantic Way which follows the southern shore passing through the little fishing village of Dooega.

Love biking? You can also cycle around Achill. The island has three looped trails, and the Great Western Greenway is a cycling and walking trail that runs around the Eastern and Northern stretches of Clew Bay in Co Mayo. This trail follows the route of the renowned Westport to Achill railway which closed in 1937. Go here for bicycle hire providers. 

Day Trip from Westport

But first, coffee (Irish style)

After departing Westport, our morning stop was for our routine Irish Coffee fix at Alice’s Harbour Bar & Restaurant, just across the Michael Davitt Bridge.

This bar & restaurant is a part of the Achill Island Hotel, a family run 3-Star Hotel overlooking the sea, and also offers seasonal food including local seafood, and their extensive menu is available all day.

If you visit on your return in the afternoon, why not enjoy a pint of Guinness while watching the sun set over the water.

Continuing on from Alice’s along the Atlantic Drive, we witnessed stunning views of the rocky coastline, sea cliffs and bays and with our knowledgeable tour guide Helen knowing the scenic spots for photographs, we stopped at some of the best vantage points for views.

We passed by the White Cliffs of Ashleam. These white, chalk cliffs surround picturesque Ashleam Bay and are about 30 meters in height. 

Lunch at Gielty’s Bar & Restaurant 

Lunch was taken at Gielty’s Bar & Restaurant at the edge of Dooagh village. The last pub on the road of pubs in Achill Island on the road to Keem beach, Gielty’s is the most westerly pub in Europe and the only pub in the area with Sky Sports (in case you can’t miss your game).

We sat down in their cozy bar & coffee shop at the front which has a fantastic panoramic view of Clew Bay. I chose well with one of my favorite Irish dishes, a humongous Beef & Guinness pie, washed down with a Smithwicks Irish Ale. 

They offer breakfast, bar food, a full-dinner and they use locally sourced produce and get fresh fish from their very own boat. They’re also renowned for their traditional music sessions most evenings of the week. 

I grabbed a coffee to go to sip on the road as we took in more scenery, which was surprisingly pretty good. For more places to eat and drink on Achill Island go here. 

Keem Bay

Following the Atlantic Drive around the picturesque coastline, a short while later we arrived at what would be the highlight of our day on the island.

At the western end of the island is Keem Bay and The Strand (beach), which has been named as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

Growing up in Australia and having spent plenty of time in Southeast Asia and Hawaii, I’m used to seeing gorgeous beaches, but I don’t expect to see them in Ireland. 

Keem Bay reminded me of Wineglass Bay in Tasmania somewhat, not necessarily the shape, but its remoteness and turquoise water. It was virtually uninhabited, and the only building is a former coastguard station perched on the cliff. I now know why it’s recognized as one of the most picturesque bays in Ireland.

Located at the head of a valley between the cliffs of Benmore to the west, and Croaghaun Mountain to the east, the Strand Beach (Keem Beach) is one of Achill’s five Blue Flag beaches – an international standard for beaches with a criteria that includes water quality, environmental education, environmental management, and safety and services.

Popular for water sports and beachgoers during the warmer months (there are lifeguards during bathing season), in the cooler months it’s perfect for a slow amble along the sand – mind you, one of my travel friends, Jon, who likes cold water immersion therapy decided to jump in and he said it was probably about 50F.

The water did look very inviting, but I was happy to take it all in from the sand and clifftop. Even the views walking down to the beach from our parking spot at the top of the winding road were stunning! 

This was our longest stop of our day, and I would love to come back here in the warmer months for some stand up paddle boarding or kitesurfing. 

NOTE: it was quite windy and cool when we visited in late September, wear layers and appropriate gear no matter the time of year for your visit to Achill Island.

Other Points of Interest on Achill Island

We didn’t quite have a full day to explore the island, but if you have more time, or possibly stay overnight somewhere, it has a lot to offer and below are some other attractions and things to do on Achill Island.

More Beaches

As I mentioned, there are five Blue Flag beaches on the island, and they offer some of the best quality beaches in all of Ireland.

• Keel Beach – one of the biggest beaches on the island with clean water. A few shops nearby and popular for surfing.
• Trawmore Strand – a 3km long stretch that’s one of the most well-known and photographed beaches and popular with bathers and watersports including surfing, windsurfing and sea kayaking (beware of strong currents on the eastern half).
• Silver Strand Beach, Dugort – On the north side of Achill and faces Blacksod Bay and the Belmullet Peninsula.
• Dooega Bay Beach – also known as Camport Bay, Dooega is a picturesque fishing village with south-facing views across the Atlantic.

Minaun Heights Viewing Point

Located close to the center of Achill Island, the 466m high Minaun Heights offers spectacular views over the island and is one of the key stops along the Atlantic Drive. On a clear day, you can easily see the tropical-looking Trawmore Beach and Keem Bay and the peaks of both Slievemore and Croaghaun.

You can drive to the top via a steep and narrow road (walkers and cyclists also use the road), and from the carpark it’s about a 15-minute walk to the peak.. 

The Deserted Village (Slievemore)

Slievemore is the largest of several ‘booley’ settlements. Booleying refers to the practice of living in different locations during the summer and winter periods, primarily to allow cattle to graze in summer pasture.

The Deserted Village at Slievemore consists of some 80 – 100 stone cottages located along a mile long stretch of road. Some of the dwellings were occupied as summer ‘booley’ homes, and the area is also rich in archaeological artifacts including megalithic tombs dating from the Neolithic period some 5,000 years ago. 

Blueway (kayaking & snorkeling)

Located on the north and western coastline at Dugort and Keem, The Blueway is a network of water trails where you can experience a variety of water based activities such as kayaking and snorkeling, in a safe controlled environment.

Kildavnet Castle

Kildavnet Castle is located on the south-eastern shore of Achill Island, and the placename literally means “the small church of Davnet” and refers to the 7th century Saint Dympna who built a small church here.

The castle is said to have been built in about 1429, and is a fine example of a 15th-century Irish rectangular tower house. It is best known as the home of its most famous tenant, the legendary pirate queen Granuaille (Grace O’Malley).

Where to Stay in Westport

We spent two nights at the Westport Plaza Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Westport and steps away from shops, restaurants, and Westport House. This 4-star hotel is a lovely place to stay with large rooms and a quality bar and restaurant for breakfast and dinner.

When in Westport, don’t miss exploring the Westport House and enjoy some live music over a few pints at The Porter House Pub. If you want to stay on Achill Island, here is a list of options.

I hope this post inspired you to explore the west coast of Ireland, the scenery is spectacular and I encourage you to add this area to your list of things to do in Ireland.

For more information about my 8-day tour of Ireland with Globus, be sure to check out this post for all the details. 

Ireland, it might be a small island, but it packs a big punch with rich history, breathtaking landscapes, pubs on every street, and welcoming people whose primary focus is being friendly and having good craic (That’s Irish for a good time).

I fell in love with the Irish culture and its rich history, the rugged coastline, the vibrant cities and small towns, the castles, and the green rolling countryside. It’s called The Emerald Isle for a reason!

Living in Ireland is when I acquired the taste of Guinness (still my favorite beer) and my love of Irish pubs – in my opinion, Ireland and the UK has the best pub scene in the world bar none!

As for food, I wouldn’t classify Ireland as a foodie destination, but I love the good hearty meals Ireland dishes up. A few of my favorite dishes like Beef & Guinness Stew, Cod n’ Chips, and traditional Irish Soda Bread – you just have to try it with Irish butter!

It’s hard to believe it took me 20 years to make a return trip to Ireland. If you had of told me in 2003 that it would be due to my own travel publication in partnership with one of the biggest tour companies in the world, Globus, I would have said, “good story, now get to the bar and buy me a Guinness!”

The only negative of this Ireland trip is that Caroline couldn’t join me, staying home with our two daughters in Raleigh, North Carolina, but she previously did a fantastic tour of Jordan with Globus.

I’ve seen first-hand how popular Ireland tourism is, especially for Americans whom we’d often meet touring around Ireland chasing their ancestral history.

My tour of Ireland with Globus in September was an 8-day tour called Green With Envy, starting from and returning to Dublin. It covered a nice mix top cities including Dublin and Galway, smaller towns like Westport, plus history, culture, the addictive pub scene, and the rugged coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way!

Below I share my highlights, comments, and photos from that tour, including a drink in Ireland’s oldest pub, standing on a dramatic cliff face 330 ft above the Atlantic, and enjoying plenty of good Craic with the locals.

If you’re interested in a tour of Ireland with all the fun, and none of the hassle, come with me as a take you on a tour with Globus, and learn why I enjoyed my first ever group tour that you can replicate! 

About Globus Journeys

Globus is one of the biggest tour companies in the world, and they help travel lovers like you experience global destinations in a way that best suits your style!

After 90-plus years in business, they’re experts on group travel. They know how to get the most out of a destination within a set period of time and offer a wide range of tour options and price points to suit any taste.

Most of my travels the past 20-years have been independent, either traveling solo, with friends, as a couple with Caroline, or traveling as a family of four. Yes, I’ve done day trips with groups here and there, but never an 8-day organized tour like this on a big tour bus!

I must admit, my initial thought of spending so many days with a large group and the structure of a tour didn’t thrill me as I’ve been used to so much freedom! 

I’m not antisocial by any means, I just don’t like too much structure and prefer flexibility. You hear of tours where they’re constantly checking in and out of hotels, or they spend the whole time driving in the tour bus. I was concerned a group tour might stifle me!

But I know how time consuming, overwhelming, and stressful independent travel can be to plan and book, like our recent 2-week family trip to London including Oxford and Bath which took MONTHS to organize! One of the most stressful things about traveling as a family is figuring out where to eat three meals a day, and how to structure each day with activities!

So the idea of just turning up in Ireland and having all the logistics taken care of for me, sounded like a refreshing change and quickly grew on me! 

Turns out, I had nothing to worry about. I really liked the pace and flow of this tour. Never too rushed, and we took in the major destinations and attractions, with plenty of free time for independent exploration.

Some days were more structured than others, but I appreciated the numerous opportunities of free time to go off and explore on my own. And when I didn’t know what to do with my spare time, our expert Globus Tour Director Helen, an Irish local, offered great suggestions (more on her soon).

Introducing CHOICE TOURING!

One of the major benefits of touring with Globus is their concept of Choice Touring. When we visited Dublin, Galway and Westport they gave me the option to choose from three activities based on my interests so I wasn’t with the whole group the entire time.

But those activity choices were still organized by Globus, and were included in the overall tour package price, win-win!

I appreciated this form of touring, and I think you will too. You get a good mix of everything being structured as a whole group, with select activities more suited to individual interests! 

I’m not aware of other Ireland bus tours offering this, and the best itinerary is a flexible itinerary!

Benefits of this Globus Tour!

I mentioned Helen, our amazing Tour Director and local expert who was friendly, approachable, patient and a wealth of knowledge. 

She shared fascinating insights and stories during our tour of Ireland and the history behind the places we visited, organized our attraction tickets, checked us in at hotels, booked our meals, and made sure everyone was on time. Everyone needs a Helen on their travels! 

I appreciated that our Tour Director was a native of Ireland, spoke Irish, and could share her personal stories growing up on the Emerald Isle!

Having the logistics taken care of by Globus (and Helen) is hard to understate. They make traveling easy. They can even help you book your flights!

My biggest responsibilities each day was simply turning up on time and deciding how many Guinness and Irish coffees to consume. It’s not easy, folks! What would you choose?

Here are some other benefits on this tour:

• Convenience. All I chose to take care of was my flights, they did the rest and made travel easy!
• 8 days is a good length of time. Ireland is not a big country, but it offers plenty and this Ireland tour did a good job of covering the top highlights, plus lesser-known destinations (you can always add on extra time before or after).
• I didn’t have to drive (or navigate). I’m usually the one behind the wheel on our family travels, so can often miss seeing the sites along the journey. It was so good being able to sit back and relax, and not having to worry about drinking a pint of Guinness, or a whiskey at lunch and then legally being able to drive. Our bus driver, Jurgen, did a fantastic job of getting us safely around!
• NOTE: I grew up driving on the left side of the road in Australia (as they do in Ireland), so if you’re from the US and this concerns you, Jurgen is your man!
• Big windows and comfy seats to take in all the scenery from our comfortable coach.
• Stayed in hand-selected, brand-name hotels.

• I wasn’t rushed taking photos. There’s a statistic that the average time spent at the Grand Canyon is 15-minutes. I felt we had plenty of time at the iconic spots like the Cliffs of Moher and Kylemore Abbey etc. I may have been last on the bus several times though, sorry Helen!
• Bond with new travel buddies. Exploring with like minded people adds to the experience, and sharing the day’s stories over a pint or meal is a fun way to recap the day!
• Most meals are taken care of. As I mentioned, this is such a time suck to plan when doing independent travel. On this trip we had 14 meals booked, including 5 dinners, 7 breakfasts, and 2 lunches included. 

Arriving in Dublin (early)

Because of the number of delayed flights going on due to the hangover of the pandemic, I decided to arrive in Dublin two days before the start of my tour to give myself breathing room in case of flight delays or cancellations (which happened to several other tour guests).

You don’t want to miss the start of your tour, this is not independent travel where you can delay your rental car, there is a bus load of other tour guests leaving at a predetermined time!

I live in Raleigh, North Carolina and took a short flight to Washington DC, then flew directly from D.C. to Dublin on Aer Lingus.

If you are flying internationally, I highly recommend you give yourself an extra day up your sleeve, you don’t want to start your dream trip to Ireland stressed and in a state of panic!

Overnight at the Gibson Hotel (2 nights)

Our pre-tour hotel in Dublin was the Gibson Hotel located in the heart of the Docklands and right beside the 3arena (major entertainment venue).

As I highlighted, the benefit of doing a Globus Tour is convenience, and that started with a private airport transfer from Dublin Airport to the hotel, which I gladly appreciated after my sleepless overnight flight from DC in not having to mess around with public transport.

The modern features of the Gibson hotel, the nice hot shower and comfy bed served me well after my 7-hour flight and the hot buffet breakfast fueled me nicely each day. 

I like to walk as much as I can, it’s the best way to explore a city and I enjoyed my 30-minute walk (1.6 miles) along the River Liffey into the city center from the hotel and found a great coffee shop enroute. 

But if you don’t like to walk that far, the Luas (light rail system in Dublin) is right outside the front door of the hotel. The Point Station is the last stop on the Red Line. Ticket machines are located at every stop and a single return ticket is €3.00.

Alternatively, there are over 100 bus routes in Dublin so no matter where your hotel is located, you’re close to public transport.

2 Days in Dublin (pre-tour)

Because I flew in two days early, I had plenty of time to explore Dublin at my own leisure before joining my tour group. This is a great way to incorporate more independent travel into a group situation, either at the beginning or end, or both!

Thankfully, I was able to check-in to my hotel room early after my 8.30am arrival from DC, took a shower, got changed, then headed for the city center. 

There are plenty of things to do in Dublin and it’s an easy city to get around. Most of the top Dublin attractions are within walking distance of each other. And of course, the hop-on-hop-off bus is a popular way to see the sites.

Walk along the River Liffey (+ Coffee)

The River Liffey passes through the center of Dublin and separates the Northside from the Southside, and most points of interest are on the southside!

Coffee almost always comes first for me these days, but since it’s been 20-years between visits I didn’t know what to expect. After a quick search online, I liked the sound of Shoe Lane Coffee on Tara street which was enroute from the hotel and just a 5-minute walk from Trinity College.

It’s a small, cozy coffee shop and my latte was actually really good. I pulled up a stool at the window to people watch, started to feel alive again, and it finally hit me that I was back in Dublin!

Trinity College

From here I took a walk around the grounds of Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest and famous University. Its alumni include some of the country’s most esteemed authors and poets.

The cobblestone streets transport you to the 18th century when the magnificent old Library Building was constructed. It’s a pleasant escape from the mad rush of the city that lies beyond its walls. Be sure to take a photo in front of the famous Trinity Bell.

Unfortunately, I couldn’t go inside the old library and see the Book of Kells as tickets were sold out for the day, but I’ve visited before and highly recommend it. Book your guided tour in advance. 

Lunch at The Stags Head

From Trinity I took a short 5-minute stroll to The Stags Head, an old Victorian pub with wrought-iron chandeliers, polished granite and plenty of charm. It’s one of my favorite pubs in Dublin from when I lived there.

You’ll find a mix of locals and visitors here enjoying a true Dublin pub experience.

Considering I’d only had one hour’s sleep, I hesitated at buying a beer and initially focused on filling up with a hearty Beef & Guinness Stew (which would be my first of MANY on this trip). 

But how could I resist a pint of Guinness (the “black stuff”) and my favorite beer? I reminded myself I was on vacation, and it had been a LONG time between pints. In case you don’t know, there’s nowhere like drinking Guinness than in its home of Dublin, it just tastes better – a study claims to scientifically prove that Guinness does not travel well, and the freshest Guinness is the best-tasting Guinness!

Lunch, and my Guinness, didn’t disappoint and was the perk up I needed. If you like Oysters, The Stags Head does a fantastic Guinness + Oysters combo and take it from me, they go well together!

Grafton Street 

Tummy full, I strolled up Grafton Street. This pedestrian street is the principal shopping street on the southside of Dublin lined with boutique stores, cafes, restaurants and buskers. At the top of the street (south end) you’ll run into beautiful St Stephen’s Green.

It’s a street I used to walk along every day when living in Dublin on my way to work at the Westin Hotel. Nothing much has changed, it’s still a bustling thoroughfare!

Merrion Square

Continuing to stretch my legs, I headed towards Merrion Square via the outskirts of St Stephen’s Green (which I would return to the next morning).

This is one of Dublin’s beautiful Georgian squares surrounded by historically important buildings. On three sides are Georgian houses, predominantly used as offices and have plaques detailing the rich and famous who lived in them. Oscar Wilde lived at #1 and is honored by a state in the park here.

The houses of the Irish Government, the Natural History Museum and National Gallery of Ireland also sit along the square. I love all the colorful Georgian entrance doors to the buildings, and If you’re looking to see Dublin architecture at its finest, go here. 

Temple Bar District 

It was early evening now, so I headed towards the well-known and touristy Temple Bar District. This district thrives both day and night with pubs, live music, street performers, restaurants, markets, exhibitions, theaters and more.

The best-known pub is the namesake, The Temple Bar, easily recognized by its red exterior, fairy lights and hanging baskets. Other popular pubs here include the Quays Bar and Oliver St. John Gogarty’s (where Caroline once worked!).

All of the pubs have live music and tend to get crowded. I enjoyed a few pints in Quays Bar which was absolutely rocking with music and singing. If I didn’t know I was in Dublin by now, this sealed it.

8 Day Ireland Tour (Green With Envy)

Ready to explore Ireland? Follow me as we taste Whiskey, sip on Irish coffees and Guinness, discover the natural beauty, walk on ancient lands, and get wild on the Wild Atlantic Way!

Day 1 (welcome dinner)

I still had nearly a full-day free in Dublin before our welcome tour dinner that evening. And after catching up on some sleep, my second day in Dublin started like the first. A big breakfast, a walk along the Liffey, and back for more coffee at Shoe Lane!

Fueled up, I wandered through St Stephens Green with friends Dave & Lina. This is the largest of the Georgian Square parks which was one of my favorite places to visit in Dublin to sit and relax when living there.

It’s popular with visiting tourists, students and workers taking a break from a busy day at the office.

Another walk down memory lane was going for lunch at The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub that dates back to the 1100’s and where I celebrated my 30^th birthday back in 2003.

A must-visit pub for history lovers and those looking for traditional pub food such as Bangers & Mash, authentic decor, and a look into Ireland’s pub culture. It’s also a good spot to try an Irish coffee! 

Welcome Dinner

It was time to meet our Globus Tour Director Helen, who I’ll elaborate more on later, and have our welcome dinner.

When you do this Green With Envy Tour, your welcome dinner location will be different, probably at your hotel, whereas ours was at the Roe & Co Distillery. 

Aside from Guinness, Ireland is famous for that other beverage, Irish Whiskey, and we had a fun evening tasting and making Whiskey cocktails followed by a delicious meal.

If you love Whiskey and have free time in Dublin, I recommend you take a tour to learn about the history of the distillery and the distilling process. See more about the Roe & Co Distillery Cocktail Workshop here. Or combine your visit with a tour of three of Dublin’s top distilleries.

Day 2 (Dublin > Kilbeggan > Athlone > Westport)

Today was the day to hit the road on our Ireland tour. It was a refreshing change to know that all I had to do was get myself downstairs to breakfast in the hotel, then outside to the bus. 

One of the other benefits of touring with Globus is they even collect your luggage from your room and load it onto the bus. Talk about convenience!

Guided tour of Kilbeggan Distillery

Just over an hour’s drive west of Dublin brought us to Kilbeggan, an Irish Whiskey distillery situated on the River Brosna in County Westmeath.

Established in 1757, it is the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland and during some tough times the town came together to save the distillery that built the town and they’ve been making Whiskey ever since!

Being the Irish way, it wasn’t yet midday and we were already tasting whiskey as we explored the history of the distillery learning about the families that owned it and how it is made.

Kilbeggan Whiskey is distilled twice instead of three times like other Irish Whiskeys, then aged in ex-bourbon casks for a minimum of four years. This process preserves more of its rich flavors, resulting in a flavor profile with more character than other whiskeys.

Explore Athlone

A short 30-minute drive on and we were in Athlone, a town located in central Ireland and built on the banks of the River Shannon. 

With a short amount of free time, I enjoyed stretching my legs walking around town, taking a look at the 12th century Athlone Castle, wandering some back streets, and taking in the sights of the river.

Seans Bar

Athlone has tons of history, including being home to Ireland’s oldest pub, Seans, that dates back just a few years to 900 AD (not a typo). During renovations in 1970, the walls of the bar were found to be made of “wattle and wicker” dating back to the ninth century.

Walking through the door into the pub with its low ceiling and low light, you instantly sense the history and character. We were treated to a fascinating talk about the pub as we sipped on an Irish Coffee, the beginning of an almost daily occurrence with no complaints from me!

It may be two months since this Ireland bus tour has ended, but I still find myself saying in my head, “Helen, when are we stopping for our daily Irish coffee?“

If you’ve never had an Irish Coffee, why not start here in possibly the oldest pub in the world (the Guinness Book of Records is yet to find one older). 

In case you don’t know, the ingredients of an Irish Coffee are whiskey, hot coffee, brown sugar, and heavy cream lightly whipped on top. I attempt to make Irish coffees at home but can never get the cream to sit on top – the secret is the brown sugar to help the cream float.

Recently, Sean’s has become well known for its own whiskey. During their research, it was discovered that the very origin of distilling began around Athlone in the 6th century. I look forward to going back to Sean’s for a glass of whiskey, and of course, a pint of Guinness!

Lunch at The Bailey Bar & Lounge

We finished off our time in Athlone with lunch at The Bailey, which offers a good selection of typical Irish pub food. My Prime Roast Rib of Irish Hereford Beef with Yorkshire Pudding tasted as good as it looks and paired perfectly with a pint of the “black stuff”.

The staff were attentive and friendly, even offering me the chance to take a fun photo behind the bar pulling my own beer! 

Arriving in Westport

What a charming and inviting town Westport is. I remember passing through here in 2003 on my lap around the Emerald Isle and it makes for a great base to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, but is a destination in itself.

Our first of two nights in Westport was rather quiet with dinner at our hotel, Coveys Gastrobar, a New York Italian inspired Bar and Restaurant.

Overnight at the Westport Plaza Hotel

Located in the heart of Westport, you’re literally steps away from shops, restaurants, and Westport House. This 4-star hotel is a lovely place to stay with large rooms and a quality bar and restaurant for breakfast and dinner.

Day 3 (Westport > Achill Island)

Today was the first day of tour where I got to choose one of the YourChoice Excursions, the activity of most interest to me from the following three choices:

1. Achill Island – explore Ireland’s largest island along the Wild Atlantic Way.
2. Guided e-bike tour – get away from the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Westport with an easy, breezy guided e-bike tour.
3. Soda bread-baking class – test the tradition of Irish soda bread-baking and enjoy insight into Irish food culture, its history and heritage. 

I chose Achill Island. Besides the pub scene and history, what I love most about Ireland is the natural beauty. 

Discovering Achill Island

Before joining this Globus tour, I wasn’t familiar with Achill Island. When I lived in Dublin, we explored the famous Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula which are stunningly beautiful.But they are both heavily visited, especially the Ring of Kerry as the road on the Dingle Peninsula can’t be navigated by the big tour buses!

What I loved about our tour of Achill Island, besides its stunning landscapes, is that we basically had the island all to ourselves! 

Achill Island is situated about an hour’s drive from Westport. It is one of the jewels in the crown of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and known for soaring sea cliffs, rugged mountains, lakes, huge and ever-changing Atlantic skies, and clean beaches including iconic Keem Bay.

After departing Westport, the first stop was for our routine Irish Coffee fix at Alice’s Harbour Bar & Restaurant, just across the bridge at Achill Sound.

The morning drive continued and provided stunning views of the rugged coastline and sea cliffs, and with our knowledgeable tour guide Helen knowing the scenic spots for photographs, we stopped at some of the best vantage points for views, even the locals (sheep) joined us for a few photos!

Lunch was taken at Gielty’s Bar & Restaurant, the most westerly pub in Europe. I chose well with a humongous Beef & Guinness Stew, washed down with a Smithwicks Irish Ale. 

The highlight of our Achill Island day trip was undoubtedly Keem Bay, at the western end of the island. I don’t normally expect to see beautiful beaches in Ireland, but I now know why it’s recognized as one of the most picturesque bays in Ireland.

The Strand (beach) at Keem Bay is bordered on two sides by cliffs, and has been named as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

This was our longest stop of our day, and we took the opportunity to walk down the windy road onto the sand and the elevated rocks bordering the bay for a close up look at the picturesque water and to feel engulfed by the sea cliffs. 

Read my full guide to exploring Achill Island in Ireland.

Exploring Westport

Arriving back into Westport mid-afternoon allowed ample time to explore on foot. It’s a lovely town to wander and take in the colorful shop fronts on Bridge Street and stroll across the Stone bridges that are a feature as they span the waters of the Carrowbeg River. 

Other points of interest include The Clock Tower, an art deco–style landmark, and the St. Patrick Statue sits in a picturesque square.

A short 20-minute walk brings you to Westport House, a 400-year-old Historic House and one of the few privately-owned historic houses left in Ireland. We didn’t tour inside, but I still recommend you enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the estate from the grounds and forest trails. 

Dinner at J.J. O’malley’s

Take your pick of several restaurants in town, we were guided to J.J O’malley’s Bar & Restaurant by Helen and my Flame grilled Sirloin Steak with vegetables was fantastic! 

Live Music at The Porter House

Wander into almost any pub in Ireland for the chance to hear traditional live music, and one of my favorite things about exploring Ireland.

The Porter House in the heart of Westport is renowned for its nightly live traditional Irish music sessions. Cozy and inviting to both locals and visitors alike, this was one of my most memorable Ireland travel moments from our tour as the local musicians, and clientele in the pub, sang along to some classic tunes.

A visiting Italian guy interrupted the set to propose to his girlfriend in front of the whole pub, then proceeded to shout 30-pints of Guinness on the bar. It extended our night by a few tunes, what’s a Guinness lover to do?

Day 4 (Westport > Kylemore Abbey > Galway)

Kylemore Abbey

The misty weather set the mood for our visit to Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions located just over an hour from Galway. 

Kylemore Castle was built in the late 1800s by Mitchell Henry MP, a wealthy businessman. Inspired by his love for his wife Margaret, and his hopes for his beloved Ireland, Henry created an estate boasting ‘all the innovations of the modern age’.

Today Kylemore Abbey is owned and run by the Benedictine community who have been in residence since 1920.

Entrance tickets are included in your Globus Tour, and I enjoyed my time on a self-guided walk to explore the woodland and lakeshore walks, the rooms of the magnificent mansion, and the property also features a 6-acre Victorian Walled Garden, Ireland’s largest walled garden.

On-site is a Café and Garden Tea House, a nice spot to enjoy a warming soup, soda bread and coffee. Also serving a wide selection of sandwiches, artisan breads, wraps, and pastries.

Arriving in Galway

Next stop was Galway. This laid back yet fun city really knows how to party and there’s possibly no better place in Ireland to have some craic and take in live traditional music from one of its lively pubs.

Galway is also known as a top destination for festivals such as the Galway Oyster Festival, the Galway Arts Festival, and the Galway Film Festival. No matter what time of year, you can find culture, arts and history around every corner, including the popular Galway City Museum.

We arrived around midday with some free time to explore before our afternoon of YourChoice Excursions. 

A group of us took a stroll along Quay Street, a pedestrian street in the Latin Quarter and a lively place filled with shops, markets, restaurants and of course, pubs. Rain or shine, you’ll encounter buskers, and it’s just a fun street to pass an hour or so.

For classic Fish & Chips, McDonahs is the spot for lunch. They’ve been satisfying locals and visitors since 1902. This casual and affordable eatery offers a variety of fish dishes and are also well known for their oysters. I went with Cod ‘n Chips and half a dozen fresh oysters!

YourChoice Excursions

In Galway, our Choice Excursions included the following two activities for us to pick from:

1. Walking tour of Galway – learn of its history and main attractions.
2. Food Tour – discover Galway’s best eateries.

Walking Tour of Galway 

This was a tough choice for me as I love to eat the local food whenever I travel, but I decided to go with the walking tour.

Led by Helen, our Globus Tour Director and expert Ireland tour guide (she’s a Galway girl), our walk started in Eyre Square, Galway’s main public space and the original town green. In the 2000s it became a modern plaza and one of the newer works of art is the Quincentennial Fountain with an abstract depiction of one of Galway’s typical “Hooker”, sailboats.

There’s a bronze cast statue of Pádraic Ó Conaire, one of Ireland’s foremost Irish-language writers, and Eyre Square is also known as John F. Kennedy Memorial Park in honor of JFK’s speech in the square on 29 June 1963, the first U.S. president to do so during his term of office. 

The rest of our walking tour took in Lynch’s Castle (home to an AIB Bank making it the oldest building still in commercial use in Ireland), St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, and other statues and murals while learning fascinating history about this medieval city.

Our tour ended with dinner at The Kings Head, a building that has been standing tall for over 800 years. Potato & Leek Soup, followed by another Beef & Guinness Stew (I know), capped off a lovely afternoon and evening!

Those that participated in the foodie tour raved about it. In my experience food tours can be very hit and miss, but by all reports this one was well worth it. 

Overnight  – Maldron Hotel Galway (2 nights)

Our two night stay in Galway was at the Maldron Hotel, a 25-minute walk from the city center or an easy 10-minute bus ride.

This 4-star modern hotel was another pleasant stay with spacious and comfortable rooms, and your typical large hot buffet Irish breakfast was awaiting us each morning!

Day 5 – Aran Islands Day Trip from Galway (Inishmore Island)

It felt like we stepped back in time on the Aran Islands, a group of three islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay. 

These islands are important elements of Celtic culture for their geological formation, historical monuments and their linguistic and cultural heritage, and are home to a high number of ruins and sacred sites.

Inishmore (Inis Mór) is the largest of the islands (also known as Big Island) and where we explored after taking a 30-minute passenger ferry ride from the Ros a’ Mhíl Terminal.

To get around Inishmore, options include bike rental (watch out for wind and rain), Horse and Cart, or a mini-bus tour. As part of our Green With Envy Globus Tour, our private Mini-bus tour was included, and it was nice to step off the ferry and not having to worry about approaches from other outfitters!

But first, lunch, in another pub, a short walk up the hill from the ferry terminal. Joe Watty’s Bar had a spread of soup and sandwiches waiting for our group, a musician entertained us, and we heard from a local about life on the island before we set off to explore.

Our min-bus guide provided commentary as he navigated the windy roads past beaches (Kilmurvey Beach looked picturesque), and took in the rugged landscape, stone walls and cottages.

The Seven Churches (the old ruins of Na Seacht dTeampaill)

First stop was at The Seven Churches, which was for centuries one of the biggest monastic foundations and centers of pilgrimage in the west of Ireland dating back to the 7th or 8th century.

Despite its name, there are only two churches on site, ‘Teampall Bhreacán’ and ‘Teampall an Phoill’. The largest and most complete of the ruins is St. Breacan’s Church which bears the name of a saint that moved to the area in the 5th century and still features ornate stonework.

Surrounding the churches are the ruins of what are believed to have been a number of monastic dwellings which pilgrims would have stayed in, old graveyards and Celtic headstones.

Dún Aonghasa

The Irish word Dún means fort, and the Aran Islands are famous for their stone forts. One of the highlights of this Ireland tour was visiting Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric Celtic hill fort perched at the edge of a 330 ft cliff. 

Over 3,000 years old, this is an important archaeological site and deemed to be one of the best examples of its kind in Europe. 

To visit the semi-circular stone fort involves a short up-hill hike, but once you reach the fort, the views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking, now one of my favorite places to visit in Ireland, up there with the views from the Cliffs of Moher (see down below).

Part of the hike is over rough ground, so wear appropriate footwear. And please stay back from the edge, you can get fantastic photos without putting yourself in danger!

While waiting for our ferry to depart back to Galway, we had time to sneak in a beer at the pub near the pier, simply called The Bar.

Live Music at Quays Bar

The day wasn’t over just yet. Any chance I can get, I’ll step inside an Irish pub for a pint of Guinness and to listen to live traditional music, and this night ended up being my favorite night of our Ireland trip.

Accompanied by fellow travel buddies, Dave and Lina from Divergent Travels, and Jon from My Global Viewpoint, we ventured inside the iconic Quays Bar, and like its namesake in Dublin is one of the most popular pubs in Galway for live music and good craic!

We scored a table near the stage, ordered a round of drinks (which led to several rounds of drinks), and thoroughly enjoyed the two live bands who had the whole pub singing and dancing the night away with original songs and classic covers (Zombie by the Cranberries is forever in my head!)

You can’t visit Ireland without at least one night in an Irish pub, and you can’t go wrong in Galway at the Quays Bar! 

Day 6 (Galway > Cliffs of Moher > Rathbaun Farm > Dublin)

Cliffs Of Moher

Any tour of Ireland along the Wild Atlantic Way is not complete without a stop at the Cliffs of Moher, the second most visited of the places in Ireland (behind the Guinness Storehouse). 

The vertical soft shale and sandstone cliffs rise 214m (over 700 ft) above the ocean and run along the coast of County Clare for almost 14 kilometers (8 miles).

Formed over 320 million years ago, they are a part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, and standing at the top on a clear day provides for spectacular views of the Atlantic!

Since my previous visit in 2003, there are now paved pathways with a safety fence to explore different vantage points (it gets windy here). There’s also an on-site visitors center that’s dug into the hillside minimizing visual impact.

The Burren

Driving through The Burren was almost like driving on another planet, the moon-like scenery is like nothing else in Ireland. 

We were greeted with views of miles of barren limestone rock as they tumbled down to the ocean, stopping once for photos and to take a closer look. 

Rathbaun Farm 

Another local experience traveling around Ireland we had was a visit to Rathbaun Farm, a traditional Irish sheep farm that began with a warm welcome and lunch inside a 250-year-old thatched cottage – I would love another one of those scones with jam and freshly whipped cream right about now! 

Stepping outside, we were given an interesting insight into life on the farm, fed the lambs, and given a live demonstration on how Fintan, the farmer, is currently training a young Border Collie to round up sheep!

This is not an experience I normally would have researched and planned, nor had access to without being on this tour, another example of the benefits of doing tours of Ireland with Globus.

Returning to Dublin

Back to Dublin we went, and we were given three more YourChoice options to choose from:

• Literary Pub Crawl
• Guinness Storehouse Tour
• Taylors Three Rock (Irish song and dance)

Probably not surprising to you, I chose the Guinness Storehouse, which the whole tour group ended up doing. Therefore, we got to choose between the other two. I went with the Taylors Three Rock Cabaret show.

Taylors Three Rock 

A night of traditional Irish song and dance held inside Ireland’s largest thatched roof pub is what you get at Taylors Three Rock.

Drinks downstairs in Three Rock Pub kicked off the evening before we headed upstairs to the large hall where award winning Irish dancers and musicians entertained us as we dined on a three-course meal capped with an Irish coffee, because, Ireland! 

Don’t expect a 5-star meal here, they’re feeding hundreds all at once and the focus is on the show, and all up, it was a lively evening of Irish entertainment filled with laughter and singing! 

Overnight – The Samuel Hotel

We switched hotels for our second stay in Dublin, this time at The Samuel Hotel, a stylish 4-star hotel not too far from The Gibson Hotel on the north side of the Liffey with the Luas red line stopping directly outside.

Again, our accommodation was more than adequate with a buffet hot breakfast available each morning – I miss a lot of things about Ireland, add full-Irish breakfast to that list!

Day 7 (Dublin)

Morning Orientation Drive

A morning drive around Dublin city in our Globus tour bus with Helen providing expert commentary started our final day of this trip to Ireland.

We took in O’Connell Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. If you didn’t explore the city pre-tour like I did, this is a good way to get your bearings! 

Guinness Storehouse Tour

I think you know me by now, and will hear me when I say there’s no better way to finish off a fantastic Ireland tour and trip to Dublin than at the home of Guinness!

The Guinness Storehouse is the number one visited tourist attraction of Ireland, so it definitely should be on your list of things to do in Dublin, as Guinness is a big part of what makes up the culture of Ireland.

When I said there’s no better place to drink Guinness than in Ireland, well, the best pint of velvety black sout is probably poured at the Storehouse facility at the historic St. James’s Gate Brewery – you can’t get any fresher than here! 

The 7-story museum gives a fascinating insight into the history of Ireland’s favorite drink, how it is made, the 6-step ritual behind the perfect pour, and the influence it has over the world. And you might as well visit the place that is responsible for that strange malty hoppy smell that can be smelt all over the city.

Afterward, don’t miss going to the 7th-floor Gravity Bar to drink in the 360 degree city views as you try a perfect pint of the “black stuff”. If you haven’t tasted Guinness yet, it’s one of the unmissable things to do in Ireland. 

Here’s your last chance. Sláinte!

Farewell Dinner 

One last group dinner at Ryleigh’s Rooftop Grill on the sixth floor of The Mayson Hotel overlooking the River Liffey gave us all the chance to recap and share our favorite moments from our tour of Ireland. My steak and calamari dishes were more than satisfying!

In Summary

Writing this blog post brings back many memorable moments and has me inspired to see even more of Ireland. Next year is a big birthday milestone for me, the big 50, and I have an Ireland road trip (and UK) penciled in as part of that celebration!

I hope this article gave you insights into what it’s like to explore Ireland and a taste of group travel with Globus. If the idea of doing a group tour in Ireland that offers a good mix of structure and free time, definitely consider this 8-day Green With Envy tour!

And as far as Ireland tour packages go, the value is hard to beat. You can experience all this starting from $2,629 which is great value when you factor in the 7 nights of accommodation, 14 meals, entrance tickets to attractions, and transport over 8-days! See prices here.

Video: Top 5 Experiences in Dublin

Click play to watch our short video sharing our Dublin highlights.

If you have any questions about traveling to Ireland, or doing a tour with Globus Journeys, please leave me a comment below.

In fact, Dublin has some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet. The Irish are very proud of their country and heritage, and love to share this with anyone who visits and cares to take an interest.

It’s also a stunning city, with gorgeous Georgian architecture and medieval buildings throughout its streets. It’s no wonder that many of the world’s greatest novelists, authors and poets have found inspiration here.

We were fortunate enough to live in Dublin for a year in 2003 and in that time, we checked out pretty much all of the best things to do in Dublin – and there are a lot of things!

I also visited in September 2022 in partnership with Globus Tours for an 8-day Ireland tour, and Globus give you the flexibility to choose activities based on my interest as part of their new #ChoiceTouring which I loved, and had some free time in Dublin to explore more.

So whether you’re in Dublin for a weekend or a week, you’ll find this list of the top attractions in Dublin (and a few hidden gems) you’re ultimate guide on what to do in Dublin.

Getting Around Dublin

Dublin is a really easy city to get around. It’s quite compact with all the top attractions within walking distance of each other. You can also rent a bike and cycle, which is quite a popular way to get from A to B in the summer.

If you’re planning on staying outside the city center, you will find regular bus services that connect the suburbs to the city center. There are over 100 bus routes in Dublin, so no matter where you stay, you’re near to public transport.

You can also ride the lightrail system, the Luas. This is Dublin’s newest transport system and has only two lines; red and green, which connects all the hot spots in Dublin city centre.

And of course the hop-on-hop-off bus is a popular way to explore the sites and get to know the city. Or, discover Dublin by boat.

If you do decide to venture out of Dublin and explore some further afield attractions such as Trim Castle or Huntington Castle, or even if you’re planning an epic Ireland road trip, then it’s a good idea to rent a car as it can be time consuming to get a bus to these places.

RentalCars.com is a great place to look for cars to rent. It’s the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Europcar.

Save Money on Dublin Attractions

Our Experience Living in Dublin

Caz lived in Ranelagh, Dublin in the summer with her best friend in 1999, working at Oliver St John Gogarty’s restaurant in Temple Bar, and another local’s pub off Grafton St.

Then Caz and I moved back after we married. We lived in Rathmines, the student area and one of the most desirable places to live for its vibrancy and proximity to downtown.

We loved not owning a car and simply walked everywhere. We loved being just a short walk to the River Liffey through such cool neighborhoods along the way.

I worked in construction in various locations throughout the city and Caz taught at a school in Knocklyon teaching the Irish minority children and teaching ESL to small groups.

It is always great to get advice from people who have not just traveled to a country, but lived there.

There is more to an area then just what the tourists see. Although, I must say that in Dublin, there is so many tourist places that are worth seeing too.

You can listen to our podcast of our time living in Dublin here. We miss it so much and are dying to get back and show the girls a home close to our hearts.

Our Favorite Things to Do in Dublin

In case you haven’t noticed, we absolutely love Dublin, and we know you will too! So without further adu, here are the top things to do in Dublin!

1. Unwind in St. Stephens Green

St Stephens Green is a small garden park at the end of Grafton Street on the South side of the city, and is one of the most relaxing things to do in Dublin.

It is the largest of the Georgian Square parks and St Stephen’s Green was one of my favorite places in Dublin to sit and relax, watch the world go by, and have a beautiful picnic lunch.

You will find it popular with visiting tourists, students and workers taking a break from a busy day at the office.

Another popular place to relax in Dublin is the National Botanic Gardens, which is also free to enter.

2. Tour Trinity College

Trinity College is located right in the centre of Dublin, and is Ireland’s oldest University and most well known. It’s alumni include some of Ireland’s most esteemed authors and poets.

The lawns and cobbled quads are a pleasant escape from the mad rush of the city that lies beyond its walls. Take your camera and make sure you take a photo in front of the famous Trinity Bell.

The cobbled stones of Trinity College will transport you to the 18th century when the magnificent old Library Building was constructed.

We recommend doing a guided tour to see the famous Book of Kells, a ninth century gospel manuscript famous throughout the world followed by a walk through the gardens and grounds of the college and a visit to Dublin Castle.

We never visited the Book of Kells!! We were too interested in the life and culture of current day Dublin. Which leads us to our most favorite thing to do in Dublin …

3. Drink in a Pub and Listen to Irish Music

Going to Dublin and not drinking a pint in a pub is like going to Sydney and not seeing the Opera House. And guess what, Dublin has 850 pubs so you will never be left scratching your head as to where on earth you can do this.

Yep, Dublin has a pub on almost every street corner and one in between. See our post on the best pubs of Dublin for some ideas, or just find a pub in whatever street or suburb you are wondering along.

The atmosphere is warm and cozy, the food delicious, the beer flows freely and the craic is good.

I recommend making an afternoon or evening with this enjoying some good old Traditional Irish music and dancing.

You’ll be bopping, singing and dancing with the local crowd after only a couple of pints of Guinness.

History lovers will not want to miss the Brazen Head, which is the oldest pub in Ireland. Craig celebrated his 30th birthday here.

4. Visit The Guinness Storehouse

No trip to Dublin would be complete without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, which was actually called the Guinness Factory when I first lived there.

The Guinness Storehouse is super popular, in fact, it is Ireland’s most visited destination ahead of the Cliffs of Moher so it definitely should be on your list of things to do in Dublin as it’s one thing that makes up the culture of Ireland.

This was where I had my first pint of the velvety black stout, and was not to be my last. I was hooked. Be warned here, once you drink a Guinness at its original location here at the brewery, no other glass of Guinness in the world will taste as good.

One of the reasons I loved living in Dublin was the access to pure Guinness. It’s my favorite drink.

It is not just a pint of Guinness that comes with the entry fee, that is worth the visit, the museum gives a fascinating insight to the history of Ireland’s favorite drink, how it is made and the influence it has over the world.

You might as well visit the place that is responsible for that strange malty hoppy smell that can be smelt all over the city.

To top it all off when done, you can sit in the top level bar, Gravity, that gives a magnificent 360 degree view of Dublin.

We thoroughly enjoyed taking our visiting guests there, especially when they did not like Guinness and thought it only fair to hand their free pint over to their tour guides.

5. Drink Irish Coffee and Wine Bars

Caz and her best friend and I used to spend many a three am morning in the late night “coffee” bars. This was the only place you could find a “drink” after the midnight curfew.

They not only look great with their layers of caramel colored layers topped with silky white cream, but they taste divine. You will find an Irish coffee in any bar or restaurant.

If you are planning a big night out, make a wine bar a place to stop after a few pints in the pub. The wine bars are lots of fun to drink at. Some have evening jazz and wine tasting events.

Of course wine or champagne is all that is on the menu and it comes at a price, but it was often the only place you could continue partying into the early morning hours, and the underground, cavernous buildings they are held in the streets running off the Georgian Square of St Stephens Green makes it just a cool place to have a drink.

6. Eat Irish Food

Irish food is delicious and well worth spending a day or tour sampling.

Some of our favorites were beef & Guiness stew, cod & chips, potato & leek soup, bacon & cabbage, Guinness or Irish stew, and of course potato.

Never fear about having the opportunity to try this. Each dish you order will come with three varieties- mashed, baked, and boiled. The Irish don’t want you forgetting about those famine years.

7. Grafton Street Shopping

Grafton street is on the South Side of the Liffey and is a high end street for shopping.

If you don’t have the money to spend in boutique and departments stores such as Brown Thomas, you can window shop as you walk amongst the crowds along the cobblestoned street, people gazing and watching the ever-present buskers that line the streets.

There are plenty of places to rest your weary feet for a coffee or drink. I love the atmosphere on Grafton St and happy to walk through it almost every day.

I worked in a pub during lunches parallel to Grafton St, it has incredible atmosphere!

8. Attend a Hurling and Gaelic Football Match

One of the best live sporting matches I have ever seen was the All Ireland semi-final Ggaelic football match between Donegal and Armagh.

Croke Park stadium was a sea of brightly colored orange and green of jerseys and team flags madly waving in the crowd.

The atmosphere was truly electric with fans on the edge of their seat screaming and cheering with every play of the ball. It was non-stop thrilling action.

I cannot recommend highly enough that on your trip to Dublin, you organize tickets to a live match of either hurling or Gaelic football at Croke Park as one of your things to do in Dublin.

9. Visit the Outer Suburbs of Dublin

Dublin has so many great outer suburbs that are worth visiting for a taste of local living. Our favourite was, of course, our student village, Rathmines, that was full of great bars and Irish pubs.

Donnybrook and Ballbridge are two of the more affluent suburbs in the South of Dublin, and are worth a leisurely stroll to see some of Ireland’s finest Victorian architecture. Shrewsbury Road in Ballsbridge is the 6th most expensive road in the world.

Dalkey and Killiney is where you may run into celebrities such as Bono and Enya, who have homes in these upmarket neighborhoods by the sea.

Killiney Hill offers panoramic views of the surrounding Dublin mountains. You can reach these towns by the DART, the Dublin train service.

Howth, popular for the climbing of the 171m high hill on Howth head, is located in the North of Dublin. Just try to climb it on a fine day.

Ireland is called the Emerald Isle for a reason!!

10. Visit Guinness Lake (Lake Lough Tay)

Only an hour south of Dublin is a scenic drive that takes you through the Wicklow mountains to an impressive lake set in the valleys.

Guinness Lake is aptly named for its dark color, and with its white sand sitting at the top makes it look like a foaming pint of Ireland’s finest.

Actually, I have heard it is named for the Guinness family whose property surrounds the area but I like the other reason better. It is a beautiful spot for photographs and to enjoy the peace of the Irish countryside.

You can walk around the area to see various waterfalls, large boglands with sheep and streams, forests and historical places such as Glendalough.

While you have the car, drive up to Johnny Fox’s Pub for a drink at the very famous “Ireland’s  highest pub.”

These are tips you may not find on any other things to do in Dublin list, because these are the local’s secrets!

Remember to book your car rental. We’ve been using RentalCars.com for over 15 years and always get the best price through them.

11. Literary Pub Crawl

Ireland is not just known for its black ale and leprechauns, but for the incredible literary talent that has come from the hills of the Emerald Isle.

One way to get to learn more about these literary geniuses is by doing a Literary Pub Crawl through the streets of Dublin, visiting these author’s old writing and drinking haunts.

Two actors take you on a tour through the maze of narrow streets into several pubs where they act out scenes from the work of Joyce, Behan, Beckett, Yeats, Oscar Wilde and more.

The tour takes you to eight pubs, including the grounds of Trinity college and goes for about two and half hours.

I was never really that interested in the Irish writers; I tried my best to read Ulysses but soon gave up. We went on this tour with some friends, and surprisingly had a great time, and learned a whole lot as well.

I now feel like going back to Dublin and doing all these things again.

12. Sample Whiskey at Roe & Co Distillery

Aside from Guinness, Dublin is also famous for another alcoholic beverage – Irish Whiskey!

Roe & Co is a Whiskey distillery in the heart of Dublin and was once the largest distillery in the country. It was founded by George Roe, in their Thomas Street distillery.

Since then, it has grown to a size of 17 acres, and even shares its neighborhood with Guinness, creating what is known as the “historic brewing and distilling quarter.”

Visitors can choose two different tours of the distillery. One is a cocktail tour called “The Flavours Workshop” where you can learn take a masterclass in cocktail making.

The other is ‘Old Fashioned Master Class’ where you can learn about blending flavours of whiskey.

On all tours, you also learn about the history and background of the distillery, as well as the distilling process. You’ll get to explore the the Stills House and the Store.

13. See Wild Deer in Phoenix Park

Another scenic park in Dublin is Phoenix Park. It’s the largest enclosed park in any capital city in Europe and was originally a royal hunting ground.

It was built in the 1660s and opened to the public in 1747, and is most famous for its herd of wild fallow deer who call the park home, oh, and for hosting the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1979.

The park is a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and is a great place to go walking around the pond or cycle along the cycling trails. It’s also where you’ll find the Zoological Gardens, Victorian Flower Gardens, and a cafe. 

The park is open all year round, for 24 hours a day, so no matter when you want to visit, you can always be sure it’s open. It’s one of the best free things to do in Dublin.

14. Get Cultural at the National Gallery of Ireland

There are more than 40 museums in Dublin, and one that you should not miss off your Dublin itinerary is the National Gallery of Ireland. It’s where you’ll find the national collection of Irish and European art from the 1300s to today.

It first opened its doors to the public in 1864 and it one of the most important attractions in Dublin.

Don’t miss a stop by Oscar Wilde’s house which is just around the corner from the museum, and the iconic Merrion Square across the road.

15. Learn About Dublin’s Writers

Dublin was an inspirational city for many writers. The most famous of which was James Joyce, whose iconic novel, Ulysses was written as a love letter to the city.

Other famous writers from Dublin were Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver’s Travels, Bram Stoker, who wrote Dracula, and Samuel Beckett, the playwrite who wrote En attendant Godot.

You can learn all about the writers of Dublin at several places in the city. In Dublin city center, you’ll find many statues dedicated to these writers. The most famous is the Oscar Wilde Memorial statue in Merrion Square.

There is also a James Joyce Museum and the MoLI – Museum of Literature Ireland.

16. Dine at Dublin’s Oldest Pub: The Brazen Head

The Brazen Head is a must-visit attraction in Dublin for anyone looking to get an authentic look into Ireland’s pub culture. It’s located on Bridge Street, one of the oldest streets in Dublin and where you’ll find some of the most stunning pieces of medieval architecture.

The pub was deliberately built in its place as it is next to the Father Matthew Bridge, where the original crossing of the river was located. It was historically the meeting point for any travelers making their way across the river.

It was built in 1198 but the building had been updated a few times. The building you see today was built in 1754 and used to be a coaching inn, but records of the pub date back to 1653.

The pub is warm and welcoming, with rustic interiors and authentic pub decor. You can eat traditional pub food such as Beef and Guinness Stew, Bangers and Mash, and for dessert, an Apple Crumble. It’s also a good stop to try an Irish coffee!

Another great pub we recommend for food is the Stags Head Pub, which has fantastic Guinness and Oysters.

If you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up, head to Shoe Lane Coffee Shop for a hot coffee to re-energize you.

17. Walk Along the River Liffey

The River Liffey is the river that passes through the center of Dublin and so it’s impossible to miss this stop off of your list of things to do in Dublin!

The name Liffey, means Irish An Life, and it passes through three counties in Ireland. The river has been well developed, with walkways, bridges and quays.

It’s where you’ll find several of Dublin’s top attractions, such as Dublin Dockyard, The Irish Emigration Museum, The Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum Experience and of course, several top pubs!

It extends all the way to Dublin Bay, where it connects to the sea.

18. Enjoy the Taylors Three Rock Cabaret Show

Taylors Three Rock is a lively entertainment venue and restaurant and where you can watch a cabaret show – a show dedicated to everything Irish. From Irish folk singing to River Dancing, this two hour show is a homage to Ireland’s culture and heritage.

While you’re enjoying the show, you can enjoy a delicious feast of tasty Irish food and swallow it down with an Irish coffee.

The highlight of the show is definitely the Irish Dancers, who are actually world champion Irish dancers who tour the world representing their country.

Some of the dancers have performed in the West End in London, which is the goal for anyone looking to make it in show-businesses.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Dublin at night, this has to be the number one activity to do.

19. Walk Across Ha’penny Bridge

If you’re looking for a backdrop of Dublin’s iconic architecture, then head over to the stunning Ha’penny Bridge, which is the most famous pedestrian bridge on the river Liffey.

It was the first bridge to be built back in 1816 and gets its name from the time when pedestrians had to pay half a penny to cross the bridge. The bridge was created to replace the ferries that originally took people across the river.

20. See the Abandoned Prison of Kilmainham Gaol

Perhaps one of the most unique things to do in Dublin is explore the abandoned prison of Kilmainham Gaol.

The prison held men, women and children who had committed crimes for over 100 years. The inmates were said to have committed all matters of crimes, from petty crimes to some of the most notorious events in history.

As you wander the prison, you will learn about its past, its prisoners, and the stories of their crimes. Many of the inmates were those who fought for Irish independence, including Robert Emmet, Anne Devlin, the Fenians, Charles Stewart Parnell, Countess Markievicz.

It also held the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. Of those leaders, 14 were executed by firing squad in the Stonebreaker’s yard.

It opened in 1796 and closed in 1924. It was made a national monument in the 1960s and is now a museum.

21. Wander Around the Dublin Castle

No trip to Ireland would be complete without visiting one of its iconic castles. In Dublin, this castle has to be, of course, Dublin Castle.

The castle was built in the early 13th century on a former Viking settlement. Archeologists have discovered parts of the medieval castle were actually part of Viking defenses, making it one of the oldest castles in the country!

While much of the castle has been restored since its inception, the remains of the wall and the steps to the original moat are all the original walls. There’s also two museums in the complex for visitors to check out.

Caroline visited here about 5 times guiding her ESL summer students through on a field trip. She really enjoyed it – even more than once – and so did her European teen students.

If you’re interested in seeing more castles in Dublin, then the Malahide Castle is a short half day trip North of Dublin and is a stunning, well-preserved affluent castle. It has one of Ireland’s iconic Fairy Trails, which is one of the most fun activities to do with kids in Ireland (well, aside from Dublin Zoo!)

22. Learn About Irish Famine from Jeanie Johnson

The Jeanie Johnson is a three-mastered barque ship which was built in 1847 and resides on the River Liffey. It’s now a museum on the Irish Famine, which is an incredible story of a time when 1 million Irish people fled the country due to a famine.

Of those people, 2,500 took a grueling journey across the ocean on the Jeanie Johnston. The museum shows what conditions were like on board a Famine ship and tells the stories of the people who took the voyage.

After visiting the Jeanie Johnson, make sure to swing past the Custom House Quay which houses the Local Government Board of Ireland.

23. Visit the Christ Church Cathedral

Dublin is not short of beautiful churches and cathedrals, but one that must not be missed is the Christ Church Cathedral.

This stunning church has been standing in the heart of the city for over a millennia and is an important landmark in the country.

It has a reputation for being a house of liturgy, live music, and warm hospitality, and is one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in the city.

If you visit at the right time, you can witness a choir or organ performance. Be sure to check out the events calendar to see when performances are scheduled.

Video: Top 5 Experiences in Dublin

Click play to watch our short video sharing our Dublin highlights.

Before You Go

As you can see, there is so much to see and do in Dublin. Whether you’re looking to sample some of the best Irish beers, explore enchanting castles, visit some stunning landscapes or just get acquainted with the local culture – there’s a handful of attractions in Dublin that will satisfy your Irish dreams.

Before you go, make sure you have your accommodation sorted. The city is hugely popular, and many of the top hotels and apartments in Dublin city centre get booked up in advance.

Don’t leave it to the last minute, take a look through Booking.com’s 281 properties in Dublin and get yourself a good deal.

It’s also a great idea to purchase an eSim before you arrive in Dublin. You can get 3GB data for a month for only $9. It’s so easy to install and activate your eSim, and it will be ready to use right on Dublin touchdown!

One thing’s for sure, your trip to Dublin will be nothing short of memorable. Happy travels!

More Ireland travel tips:

If you’re planning an epic Ireland road trip, then you might want to check out these other resources:

• 10 of the best Dublin pubs & bars
• Things to Do in Northern Ireland
• 10 Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

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The Ireland I know is welcoming for the entire family, filled with a centuries old magic and history just waiting to be discovered.

For nearly a decade I have been traveling with my children, and my eldest daughter’s first flight was to Ireland. We’ve spent many years traveling across the country and we’ve discovered many amazing places to visit in Ireland with kids.

If you’re planning on taking a trip to the Emerald Isle full of folk tales, gorgeous nature and mystery, then you’ll want to add these family-friendly destinations in Ireland to your Ireland itinerary.

Getting Around Ireland

Ireland is a huge country and most of it is very rural. You can get from city to city quite easily by train travel, which is certainly faster and easier than getting a bus.

Here’s a travel tip for Ireland – get the bus! One of the things we love about Ireland is some bus services are free (yes, free!). These are limited to the Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, DART and Luas Services. Some ferry services are also free.

However, the buses don’t often go to rural areas. If you’re planning on visiting small towns and villages, you’ll need to do a lot of planning as bus services don’t operate that regularly. They don’t always connect to each other, too, which means changing over at another town or city.

This can take quite a long time, so if you are short on time in Ireland, or you have fussy children, the best way to get around Ireland is to hire a car.

We use RentalCars.com when we’re preparing for road trips. It’s the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, and Europcar.

If you have lots of time to spare and don’t mind spending time on public transport, the good news is Ireland’s public transport is very reliable and quite affordable.

Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

Now you know how to get from A to B in Ireland, it’s time to take a look at the top places to visit. Whether you’re looking for castles, nature, or quintessentially Irish attractions, these are the most unmissable places to visit.

1. Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

The Cliffs of Moher seem a very obvious choice for places to visit in Ireland with kids. This spectacular area on the west coast of Ireland is most popular tourist destination in Ireland. People have been coming here for hundreds of years to take in the incredible views.

Before walking up to the cliffs – a bit of a hike – be sure to stop in the Visitor’s Centre. The Atlantic Edge exhibit is well worth the time.

Kids, and even adults, will enjoy learning about the history of the Cliffs of Moher and how bird eggs were collected from the cliff walls.

2. Killarney, County Kerry

Killarney is the tourist town in Southwest Ireland – and for good reason. Killarney is often the starting point for many tourists who plan day trips around the Ring of Kerry.

Nestled next to the city centre is the edge of Killarney National Park, which includes Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and Muckross House and Muckross Traditional Farms, and miles of walking and cycling trails.

Killarney is a terrific base for day trips through the Gap of Dunloe and the Beara Peninsula. Add in shopping, dining and lively pubs and it’s very easy to spend your entire Irish vacation in this single area.

3. Lough Gur / Ballyhoura, Limerick

Lough Gur is quite possibly one of Ireland’s most magical – and least visited – areas.

Lough Gur lies just south of Limerick City in Limerick County. In this small area you’ll find Ireland’s largest stone circle, the entrance to faerie land, castle ruins, and incredible archaeological sites. Easily, an entire days’ worth of exploration and discovery for the kids.

The Ballyhoura Region, of which Lough Gur is a part of, covers much of County Limerick and the northern portion of County Cork. A popular area for hikers and mountain bikers, you’ll also find Ireland’s only Donkey Sanctuary, which is fun and free to visit.

Rambling Houses across the area will teach you Irish Dancing or maybe even how to play the Irish whistle or bodhrán.

4. Kylemore Abbey, County Galway

Photos of breathtaking Kylemore Abbey in Connemara inspire many adults to visit Ireland. But few realize that the grounds of the Abbey are incredible place for children. The paths throughout the grounds feature fun play areas for kids.

While the adults will marvel at the Walled Victorian Gardens, the kids will see a fabulous place to run and explore. The gardeners of Kylemore Abbey are always happy to answer questions and the tea shop provides a relaxing spot for a cuppa and a bit of chocolate.

If you are very adventurous, enquire about mountain hikes behind the Abbey. Not for the faint of heart, but the views are unbelievable!

5. Dingle Peninsula

Often overlooked in its neighbor’s (the Ring of Kerry) popularity, the Dingle Peninsula offers quite a lot for families. One of the largest draws is the town of Dingle’s resident dolphin, Fungi.  A terrific Oceanic Aquarium lies just by Dingle Bay.

Driving the peninsula leads to a stone age fort, beehive huts and the Gallarus Oratory. Views are just as dramatic as you’ll find on the Ring of Kerry.

The Dingle Peninsula is a Gaeltecht, or Irish speaking area, so you’re likely to pick up a few Irish words, as well. It’s a fascinating and beautiful place in Ireland to visit with kids.

6. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Will you believe the scientists, who say the Giant’s Causeway is the result of an underwater volcano, or will you trust the Irish legend that says it was built by Finn McCool as a path way to Scotland?

After visiting the miles of octagonal stones along the Antrim coastline, it’s likely you’ll choose the Irish legend. The kids sure will.

For those looking for adventure, follow the Antrim Coast Road, a narrow, often single carriageway drive that hugs the Antrim coast providing some of the most breathtaking views in Northern Ireland.

Include a stop at the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle or, for those who enjoy a thrill, cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

7. Lough Boora Parklands, County Offaly

The Lough Boora Parklands were once a prime peat mining area. Now those acres of land are public space, filled with art that can be appreciated by all ages.

Wander the pathways on foot, or rent a bicycle. And bring bits of bread to feed the ducks and geese that call the park home.

8. Clifden / Sky Road, Connemara

Though maybe not as white-knuckling as the Antrim Coast Road, the Sky Road near Clifden offers incredible views – and a few heart-racing moments as well.

At times the road seems like it must fall off the edge of the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, and then the road widens, providing a place to stop and enjoy the spectacular landscape and scenery.

The village of Clifden is called the Capital of Connemara. Filled with shops and pubs, it’s the perfect place to dance the night away in a pub to traditional Irish music (yes, kids are allowed in the pubs!). And the beaches of Mannin Bay are a terrific place to hunt shells and sea glass.

9. Bunratty Castle, County Clare

One of Ireland’s best preserved tower houses, Bunratty Castle is the center of a folk park filled with traditional Irish cottages as well as a small village filled with traditional shops and a pub.

Wandering the grounds leads to a beautiful walled garden, a piggery, plenty of animals and even a play area featuring a wooden castle.

Bunratty castle can be explored top to bottom and hosts a Medieval Banquet nightly. For families with young children, I recommend Traditional Irish Night, which is filled with music, dancing and craic (pronounced “crack”; Irish for fun and entertainment).

Next door to the castle is the famous bright yellow Durty Nelly’s Pub.

10. Phoenix Park / Dublin Zoo

Many visits to Ireland begin and end in Dublin. And while many visit the city to explore all of Dublin’s pubs, there is much more to see and do here – and let’s face it, kids are not particularly interested in pubs beside the pub grub.

One place in Dublin that will surely please kids of any age is Phoenix Park. Over 1700 acres, Phoenix Park was originally a Royal deer park. You’ll still find deer and other wildlife throughout the park as you explore on foot or bicycle.

Also within the park is the Dublin Zoo, playgrounds, a flower garden, and tea shops. Phoenix park is truly a relaxing oasis in the center of bustling Dublin.

11. Clara Lara Fun Park, County Wicklow

There are several theme parks and amusement parks in Ireland, but Clara Lara Fun Park is an amusement park that the whole family can enjoy.

You can kayak or canoe in the lake, ride bikes around the park, or slide down the water slide! There’s also an obstacle course, mini-golf and junior go-karts.

This is one place to visit in Ireland to tire the kids out!

12. Fota Wildlife Park, Cork

Fota Wildlife Park is an open zoo where visitors can get up close to the animals and even feed them. You can see kangaroos, lemurs, and monkeys. You’ll even find African animals such as giraffes, lions, and rhinos.

For animal-loving families, this is one of the top places to visit in Ireland.

Another stop in County Cork not to miss is Blarney Castle, which is famous for housing the stone of eloquence. The castle is also where you’ll find the enchanting Poison Garden and Wishing Steps. Make sure to kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck!

13. Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny

If your kids are a little older and have a more adventurous spirit, then the Castlecomer Discovery Park will be sure to excite them.

The park features a canopy walkway and climbing wall which is set 10 meters off the ground. Don’t worry though, they’ll be strapped in and given a full safety briefing.

As you cross the obstacle course in the Sycamore trees, you’ll get a birds-eye view of the park. It’s a great bonding activity and fun for all the family (over the age of 7 years old).

Afterwards, you can relax in The Canopy Cafe and catch your breath.

14. Kildare Maze Activity Park, Kildare

If you’re looking for a great day out with the kids, you’ll find ample amounts of fun at Kildare Maze Activity Park. The park is famous for housing one of the largest hedge mazes in Ireland, which is a challenging and fun family activity!

After getting lost and found in the hedge maze, you can try again in the wooden maze! There’s also a crazy gold course, assault cause, picnic area and zip wire.

If you’re looking for cheap places to visit in Ireland with kids, this is a good option, as you can save money by purchasing family tickets.

15. Fairy Bridges and Wishing Chair

Ireland has always embraced its magical history and folk tales, which are one of the reasons why kids love Ireland! It’s full of fairy trails, which take you past little wooden houses and through enchanted woodlands – it’s where your kids can escape reality and pretend to be living in a fairy tale.

You’ll find fairy trails around Malahide Castle and Gardens, Giant’s Lair or Brigit’s Garden.

If your kids are fascinated by fairies, then a spot that should not be missed off your list is Fairy Bridges and the Wishing Chair, located in Bundoran, County Donegal.

It’s a magical nature spot, offering 360-degree views of the Mullaghmore and the Slieve League Cliffs. The area is made from naturally formed sea stacks, known as the Fairy Bridges, which can be enjoyed from the rock wishing chair.

Before You Go

So there you have it, those are the best places to visit in Ireland with kids. As you can see, there’s a lot for your children to explore.

You may have already known that Ireland is great for adults, but now you know it’s a destination that the whole family can enjoy!

Before you go, make sure you book your accommodation in Ireland beforehand. There’s not a huge amount of family rooms in hotels, and guest houses and apartments get booked up quickly. Booking.com has 3,300+ properties in Ireland including hotels, apartments, and guesthouses. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best-price guarantee.

More Ireland Inspiration:

Do you need more inspiration about Ireland? Then check out these additional resources.

• 8 days in Ireland trip
• Things to Do in Northern Ireland
• Our best Ireland Travel Tips
• A local’s guide to Dublin

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It’s no secret the Irish are known for their hospitality and the love of a pint of the black stuff, Guinness. Many nights we spent in a cozy traditional Irish pub built of character, and filled with live music whilst digging into a hearty meal.

Whilst Ireland is famous for having one of the best pub scenes in the world, that’s not all it’s got going for it.

It also has spectacular coastal and countryside scenery, charming towns, historic castles, friendly people, and lots of interesting history.

The best way to see Ireland, and the way we did it, is to self-drive. It’s not a big country, and navigating the roads and towns is relatively easy, although signage is not the best in the world by anyone’s standards.

1. Spend Time in Dublin

Most visitors arrive and exit out of Dublin, and we recommend you spend a few days walking around and getting to now this city. It’s not a big city by world standards, but it’s big on energy, history, and atmosphere.

Click here to see all our insider tips on things to do in Dublin. These were our favorite experiences had during our time living in Dublin.

Our Dublin Favorites include:

• The Guinness Storehouse
• St Stephens Green
• Trinity College
• Dublin Castle
• Phoenix Park
• Guinness Lake and Wicklow Mountains
• Endless great pubs!
• Temple Bar District

There are SO many pubs in Dublin, but our list showcasing 10 of the best Dublin pubs and bars is a good place to start. One pub we forgot to mention on that list which is a locals favorite is The Stag’s Head.

Dublin is also a very walkable city – another reason we loved it so much.

2. Visit the outer Suburbs of Dublin

Dublin has many great outer suburbs that are worth visiting for a taste of local living. Our favorite was of course our student village, Rathmines, that was full of great bars and Irish pubs.

Donnybrook and Ballbridge are two of the more affluent suburbs in the South of Dublin, and are worth a leisurely stroll to see some of Ireland’s finest Victorian architecture. Shrewsbury Road in Ballsbridge is the 6th most expensive road in the world.

Dalkey and Killiney is where you may run in to celebrities such as Bono and Enya, who have homes in these upmarket neighborhood’s by the sea. You can reach these towns by the DART, the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (train service).

And Howth is a small fishing village popular for the climbing of the 171m high hill on Howth head, is located an easy train ride to the south of Dublin.

3. Road Trip Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is part of Great Britain and offers a unique perspective to Southern Ireland. We would often visit on short road trip from Dublin.

Belfast was a city we loved to return to. Click here for full in-depth tips on a Northern Ireland road trip

Belfast

Head north and visit Belfast and do a black cab tour. It will give you an up close and very personal look at the history of Ireland’s struggles and the incredible painted murals. Belfast is much less touristy than Dublin and has a nice Botanical Garden.

And take a tour of the impressive City Hall.

Giants Causeway

Check out the Giants Causeway and the rugged Antrim Coast which has views all the way to Scotland on a clear day, before heading south-west to Donegal.

4. Places to visit on an Ireland Road Trip

Doolin

One of our favorite towns on the west coast was Doolin, a small town with charm and a great live music scene in some of the coziest of Irish pubs. And close by are the famous Cliffs of Moher.

Galway and Connemara

Galway is a fun town with a great vibe and being a university town has a great student atmosphere. It’s a a slower pace than Dublin but big enough to keep you entertained for a day or two.

It’s also very walkable and has a nice central square and provides for easy access to the Connemara.

A highlight of our road trip was The Connemara Loop which had incredible rugged scenery and is not to be missed.

Dingle Peninsula

Other scenic highlights for a road trip is the Ring of Kerry and The Dingle Peninsula. We actually preferred the Dingle Peninsula over it’s more famous counterpart, but if you have the time drive both.

And the town of Dingle is wonderful set right by the ocean with cozy pubs and great food.

West Cork

The West Cork region and Mizen Head also provided for more of Ireland’s spectacular famous scenery. And the city of Cork is also worth a day or two as an alternative experience to Dublin and Galway.

Kinsale and Kilkenny

Heading back up the east coast we found Kinsale a charming little fishing town by the sea with classic Irish pubs and eating options to die for.

Further up the town of Kilkenny is worth a visit. Go check out the well known Kilkenny Castle and enjoy a pint of Kilkenny, our favorite of all the Irish beers and one of our top three in the world.

NOTE: If you don’t want to self-drive in Ireland, check out this 8-day tour of Ireland Craig recently did with Globus, a leader in group travel.

5. Visit a Castle in Ireland

Ireland is almost as well known for it’s castles as it is for it’s pub culture.

Some of our favorite’s were Kylemore Abbey on the west coast, Dublin Castle, Malahide Castle, and of course the famous Blarney Castle.

6. Drink in a Pub and Enjoy Irish Music

No trip to Ireland is complete and you won’t get a better understanding of the Irish culture unless you spend some time in their pubs. Going to Ireland and not drinking a pint in a pub is like going to Sydney and not seeing the Opera House.

Ireland has a pub on almost every street corner and one in between.

Back in Dublin see our post on 10 of the best Dublin pubs and bars for some ideas, or just find a pub in whatever street or town you are in and enjoy the craic.

7. See a Hurling or Gaelic Football Match

One of the best live sporting matches I have ever seen was the semi-final of the All Ireland Gaelic Football match between Donegal and Armagh in Croke Park, Dublin

The stadium was a sea of brightly colored orange and green jerseys, and the team flags madly waving in the crowd were incredible. The atmosphere was electric with fans screaming and cheering with every play of the ball.

It was a great cultural sporting experience and highly recommended if you get the opportunity.

8. Eat Irish Style

When we lived in Dublin we were meat eaters. Not too sure how we’d go now being vegetarians, but Irish food is delicious and hearty.

Some of our favorites were potato and leek soup, bacon and cabbage, Guinness or Irish stew, and of course potato.

Each dish you order will come with three varieties – mashed, baked, and boiled. The Irish don’t want you forgetting about those famine years.

Facebook Fan Suggestions for Ireland

• The most obvious thing is go to the Guinness Brewery and have a pint, overlooking the city.
• Definitely the Cliffs of Moher, the Blarney Castle, and Killarney Lake.
• Yeh the Guinness brewery is awesome, I did a sham rocker tour of southern Ireland, loved everything I saw and did. I would say you must talk to as many locals as possible, they rock! Don’t kiss the Blarney stone, people pee on it! Definitely go to the west coast and see the cliffs of Mohr.
• Bunratty Castle for a feast and a show.
• I wouldn’t normally advocate hitchhiking, but my sister and I did this all around south and West Ireland and met so many wonderful people. Especially loved walking through the Gap of Dunloe, near Killarney. With the soft golden light, tumbling stone ruins and green fields, it really felt like a leprechaun could jump out at any moment.
• Wicklow Mountains! And the library at Trinity College, one of the most beautiful libraries I’ve seen…
• Before you have the pint at the Guinness factory, make sure you buy the dark Guinness Chocolate bar in the gift store. Then go up, have your pint and eat the chocolate – most amazing flavors ever.
• My Suggestions (in no order): Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Stone, Giant’s Causeway, Murals in Derry and Belfast, Guinness Brewery, and hit up a pub in each and every city you stop in along the way for music and conversation.
• Cliffs of Moher and the Burren
• All of the above, plus: Rock of Cashel, Newgrange, Mizen Head (Cork coast), Connemara, stay in a farmhouse at least a couple of nights, & don’t spend too much time in Dublin — get out into the rest of the country.

More Posts About Ireland

• 10 of the best Dublin pubs & bars
• Things to Do in Northern Ireland
• 10 Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

Plan Your Trip to Ireland

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